Utterly Chaotic, Yet Utterly OK

Merry Christmas 2011!

2011-12-31T16:23:00.000-05:00

God’s love~if you will let it~can fill you! Come thirsty~and drink deeply!

Merry Christmas 2011 to all our special friends and family!

Praying you are all well! We hit the ground running last January with a trip to Florida where Emeline and Zachary played in a 3 v 3 World Championship soccer tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. Let’s just say we had a “BALL!”. We also took our first trip as a family to New Orleans for a wedding, returning home from NOLA with 7 lizards. Guess who had to walk through security with them, praying they would go unnoticed? We then did our usual fun trips to the Adirondacks, and Nantucket. Emeline and I visited my dear friend Bridget in Oregon while the boys were away at camp.

We love our family time together. The kids are at a great age. They are all old enough to keep up with each other, and they still think Steve and I are pretty cool. Whether we’re water skiing, fishing, hiking, quadding, playing a game, or a round of Frisbee golf, we love having fun. If Zachary and I are teamed up, we are often accused of cheating! Steve forces me to STOP…and PLAY….Thank you Steve!

“Andi's Antics, A Girl’s Adventures with ADD” was released last March! We were invited to be guest authors at Book Fairs, and an ADHD convention. I spoke at a Writer’s conference, and was invited to be a guest on a radio talk show. It’s been busy and fun. My mom and I have enjoyed our journey together. Thank you all for your loving support through this special time! www.andisanticsadd.com

Emeline ~ I call her my “Mary”, I’m definitely “Martha”. She encourages me to slow down and enjoy the moment….what a gift she is to me…..my daughter. She is doing well in Middle School, and still loves soccer. Emeline played on two teams last fall, and guest played a few times for the boys MS soccer team, what a thrill for her to play all that soccer! She may take her first soccer missions trip to Costa Rica next spring. Girl Scouts and Bible Studies also keep Emeline busy and growing. I thank God for her “pleasantness”.

Samuel ~ won first place in the school art contest for his grade…who knew? I think it shocked Sam more than anyone; he couldn’t even remember what he drew! Nobody can make me belly laugh like Sam, he’s got quite a whit about him. We love our Sam, and we know that God has a very special plan for him. Lacrosse and Football are Sam’s “Fave” sports. Basically, any contact type sport is right up Sam’s alley!

Zachary ~ the little brother, who is not afraid of his big brother! Zach is still Zach; he just loves life and sports, preferring football and soccer. He broke a ten year record this past summer on the swim team. He is a fierce competitor with quite a drive…..our challenge is to keep Zachary humble and remember “…….It is in Him that we live, move, and have our being.”

Steve ~ after many challenging years with his business, God has shown favor, turning the company in a more positive direction. Steve has surrounded himself with several smart, loyal employees. There’s still a lot of work to do, but Steve is a hard worker always seeking to honor the Lord in all he does. He is a wonderful father and husband. I thank God for him each day.

Me ~ after 12 ½ years, I accepted a job offer, thrilled for the opportunity; it was like a dream come true for me in many ways. Steve also asked me to come work for him. That was NEVER an option for me, I thought it was a unique, special wife who could work for her husband and it wasn’t me! After prayer and a few tears shed, I told Steve I would come work for him. I was sad to leave my dream job after only working one day! Yet, I’m enjoying working for Steve, I really am! I only work part time, so my other activities and being a mom doesn’t get in the way. It’s better than a dream job! Last June I had surgery on my elbow…OUCH! I continue to facilitate a community Bible Study, what a lovely group of ladies, and I am eternally grateful for the local Bible Church who covers this group of women and me in prayer. My walk and relationship with Jesus has grown much deeper, and sweeter than ever before. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. And I love all my girlfriends 

“…….And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8

In closing, we pray for God’s blessing on your families. Please take the hands of those you love, look into their eyes, and tell them how much you love them.

By His amazing grace……..Stephen, Debbie, Emeline, Samuel, Zachary

"Unseen Reality"

2011-11-13T21:09:00.001-05:00

Saying goodbye to a loved one begins a journey that no one can walk with you. Losing my dad 18 months ago has proven to be life changing. Heaven has become more of a reality for me, and my faith has grown to a deeper understanding of how much God loves me….

This weekend, a friend said goodbye to her 20 year old son. What do you do with that? There are no words. As I received the news last Friday, the overwhelming thought I had is how my friend’s life is now changed forever. When I saw her two days prior, her life was one way, and now it is completely different.

I’ve been called a “fuser”. Someone who cares and feels deeply for others. My heart ached and bled all week for my friend. I felt guilty for having a life when I knew hers was and is in shambles. I believe God doesn’t allow anything that we can’t handle, but how does one recover from losing a child?

I have facilitated a community Bible Study for many years now, and my friend attends. It was amazing for me to watch these ladies rally around our very broken, grief stricken friend and mother….

Brad was an exceptionally bright boy. I’m not just saying that because he is gone…he was brilliant! He had more accomplishments then most of us will have in a life time. As I attended the memorial service yesterday, I observed many who flocked up to the front to share what Brad meant to them. He was smart, funny, a leader, debater, loved his family….. And did I mention smart? A pastor concluded the service with a few thoughts on heaven. He addressed the many teenagers present in the room. He told everyone that Brad had an “Unseen Reality”. He shared the reason Brad was the great, confident, smart person everyone knew was because he had accepted Jesus as his Savior. He also assured everyone that this was not a haphazard decision by Brad, this was a well thought out decision that he concluded, there was really only one way to heaven. And because of this decision, Brad lived in a reality unknown to those who don’t believe.

Being a Christian for many years, I had never heard it explained this way before. It was simple and made so much sense. I pray God opened hearts of many yesterday especially to those who do not personally know Him and live in that “Unseen Reality”.

“For God so loved the world, that HE gave His only begotten son…whoever believes in Him, will not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
Many blessings,
Debbie

Lazy, Hazy, Crazy days of Summer?

2011-08-14T21:00:00.001-04:00

This past week was by far “crazy”…no laze or haze in sight! To set the stage, sports training camps started last week. My three kids were in five different camps throughout the day. Add to that my mother having hip surgery (running back and forth to the hospital), being in physical therapy myself for my elbow, oh and a writer’s conference toward the end of the week. All to be topped off by me being asked to speak for the first time EVER about my book on Saturday morning at the conference. I was scared to death to stand up and talk for three minutes about what I wrote and why! Three minutes is a long time when you don’t know what to say! And my audience was the last group I wanted to speak to! This was a group of many well accomplished editors, authors, publishers, agents, speakers, etc. As I sat in workshops listening to many speakers, I would just pray they would sleep in and not come to hear me speak on Saturday morning! I’m actually kidding, a big part of me was excited, and thrilled for the opportunity to speak. It has been on my heart to reach out and talk on the subject of ADHD, encouraging kids who struggle to fit in AND parents, letting them know they are not alone.

When Saturday came, I felt that stage fright, the butterflies…. I kept praying asking God to help me be calm and just be “Debbie”. That was what two of my friends encouraged me to be….ME. As I arrived at the conference, when I walked in, a friend was waiting for me; she was like an angel. God used her that moment to encourage me, pray with me, and walk that small little journey with me. She sat right next to me up front. I was amazed by her love and kindness, that I was distracted from my anxiety of having to speak!I saw her as a gift from God to me.

The time came for me to speak; I was announced and approached the microphone. I looked out at the crowd and knew I wasn’t alone up there. It all went well, and I’m thankful for that. What blew me away was how God provided for me at a time when I was tired, worn out from the week, and felt insignificant. It’s just like God to do that isn’t it? He cares about all the things that concern us. He is always faithful.

“In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul.” Psalm 138:3

Grace & Peace,

Debbie

Does he really care?

2011-03-29T15:18:00.007-04:00

Birthdays are so much fun! I celebrate mine as long as possible. This year I hit a milestone birthday, and I’m still celebrating! I teach my kids to do the same, after all, no one should have only one day, it should extend at least a month, or longer!

Today is my dad’s birthday. He would have turned 83 today. We said our goodbyes nearly 11 months ago. It makes sense the first year would be the hardest, getting through all the holidays and special occasions for the first time. Had I known last year it would be our final time celebrating his birthday I think I would have done things differently. I would have pulled out all stops to celebrate his last birthday with us. My dad was a guy who had all of what he wanted, so gift giving was tough. My last birthday gift to him was a neck pillow for him to use on an airplane…I know really lame, but he liked mine and wanted one! Certainly knowing now what I know I would have gone for a better gift, the sky would have been the limit. I’m thankful I was able to take him out for our weekly cup of coffee and muffin. I DID treat him on his birthday!

Last May after my dad passed away, I started to have a lot of questions about heaven; I needed to know what my dad was doing. It was hard for me to believe he wouldn’t be sad up there (or wherever heaven is) without my mom. He adored her. I couldn’t imagine him being happy without her, or not worrying if she was o.k. In the Bible, Genesis 1:1 it says “In the beginning, God created the heavens and earth.” But where is heaven and what do you do there? It must be crowded! So many questions flooded my little mind as I started to grieve the loss of my father. I believed heaven will be wonderful, but still…..“No one has ever seen this. No one has ever heard about it. No one has ever imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9. So, God is telling us we can’t imagine how wonderful it will be. We cannot fathom what it would be like to be around God all day long! Oh, and no aches or pains, no suffering, no hunger, no wars….not even a disagreement! No more conflict resolution! I hope there are tennis courts there!

Could it be so wonderful that my dad doesn’t care that it’s his birthday? Today as I read my Bible and prayed I felt silly but asked God if at all possible to tell my dad I said hi, Happy Birthday, and I love him. In my heart I don’t believe my dad cares, I believe he is in such constant awe of where he is, there is no time to think or be concerned about us or his birthday. I don’t take offense to that (maybe jealous), I’m happy for my dad. Sad for us…..happy for him.

In the Bible, the apostle Paul tells us, “The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass.” Revelation 21:19-21

WOW! Seems like we would definitely need our Maui Jim sunglasses in heaven!

“Death is……deliverance to life beyond your imagining.” Joseph Bayly

“Heaven is so peaceful that the storms of earth are there unknown, the stirrings of the flesh are never felt, and the howlings of the dog of hell are never heard. There all is peace and purity, perfection and security forever.” Charles Spurgeon

Happy Birthday Dr. William Doyle!! – I had to say it anyway!! We will celebrate as a family eating all of dad’s favorite foods! Thank you Karen for sending dad’s favorite pies, we will miss you there, and Glenn we will miss you too! Love you!

By His grace,

Debbie

Hermosa Beach 2011

2011-01-26T01:03:00.002-05:00

Life can seem overwhelming at times. No matter how I try to simplify my life, having three kids (11, 10, and 8) keeps me continually hopping. If I’m not making doctor or haircut appointments, I’m running them to their favorite activity or doing homework. Being married to a man who owns his own business and deals with daily challenges forces me to be independent and a “Can Do” kind of gal. While the kids are at school I struggle keeping up with the big house we live in and the relentless laundry that won’t go away!!

A special morning or afternoon for me is spending time with a girlfriend. My social life is so limited but I love the fellowship of just sitting and talking (or listening) with a friend. As I look around me I am blessed to know and have so many special women in my life. My frustration is keeping up with all the girls I love. Sometimes I wish I could gather them all together and spend a weekend with them all.

Every January I do just that…I take time out of my busy life and head west to Hermosa Beach in Southern California to spend time with girlfriends. This is my one weekend a year I take time out for me……soaking in the sunshine, walking the strand, drinking lots of coffee, eating breakfast at Martha’s, and of course solving al the worlds’ problems like only us girls know how to do!

This year I headed out with a heavy heart…for many reasons……yet after 24 hours of being with women I have known for years and who love me unconditionally, I could feel the layers of pain start to peel off. Long talks with wise women who are walking in my shoes was medicinal.

We all need to feel validated in life. There’s nothing like talking to someone who is walking a similar journey. We girls are all in different places in life, but we have one thing in common…we are pressing on, toward a higher calling..Slowly but surely…accepting the love of Christ in our hearts. Trusting in Him, and in all our ways acknowledging Him……God promises to direct our path…..

After many laughs and tears over the course of four days, I made my journey home today. Leaving warm sunny skies and the beach was bittersweet. Yes, I was leaving those I love and will most likely not see for a while, but I came home to my family, the people who also accept me just as I am. The good, the bad, and the ugly! I was ready to come be a mom and wife again. Of course the house was chaotic when I arrived home, but that’s my norm….my life…..and I love it!

Bridget, Nancy, Marguerite, Carolyn, and Peggy, I love you and my life is richer for knowing each and every one of you! Susan and Jillian….we missed you and love you too!

By His Grace, Debbie

Merry Christmas 2010!

2010-12-25T11:11:00.003-05:00

“O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.” Psalm 95:1

Merry Christmas 2010! We love you, and thank God for each and every one of you!

A little girl was taking a walk with her father one evening. Looking up at the stars she exclaimed, “O Daddy, if the wrong side of heaven is so beautiful, what must the right side be!”

On May 19th, 2010, my dad went home to be with Jesus. A musician his whole life, he is now presented faultless, in perfect harmony, to our heavenly Father. We are getting use to “The new norm,” without my dad. I miss our Friday morning coffee hour together, just him and me. My sister, brothers, and I now have the honor and privelidge of taking care of our mom and helping her adjust to life without the man she spent 54 years with, the guy who adored her! Thank you for all your prayers, and for the outpouring of love to my family. Many of you interrupted your own lives effortlessly for a month and walked us through a difficult trial….making meals…taking my kids….visiting us in the hospital…praying with us…we are eternally grateful. God’s grace was truly sufficient….moment by moment…..

The Book my mom and I wrote was accepted for royalty publication last January! It is in the final stages of production, ready to go to Marketing. What a fun journey this has been for mom and me. The title of the book is Andti’s Antics. It is a story about a girl (Emeline) who struggles with ADD. Feisty Andi tells her story with a tender touch, sharing how she “ADDs” pizzazz to her world, hoping to send a message that God has created all of us special! Please pray for us as we reach out to many girls (and boys) through the book!

Other highlights - As a family we just like to have fun! Each day we begin with devotions, thanking God for all we have, praying that He will show us opportunities to serve Him. I insist the boys pray that they will be nicer to each other or at least stop beating each other up!! Traveling is in our blood, so any opportunity we can go..we do!! We love camping with our friends, my favorite activity is when the parents play flag football with the kids…..yes us moms jump in too!! Then of course there is the beach, Camp-of-the-Woods, and Nantucket, my personal “fave”…..where we go turtle hunting, squid hunting, watch sunsets on the beach, and make daily stops at “The Dump” where you get all kinds of junk for free!

Emeline – Jersey #59. She still loves soccer and soccer loves her! Her soccer travels will take her to Orlando in January and Virginia in March. We continue to encourage her to enjoy the game, have fun, and be a light to her teammates. So far…so good. School is going quite well for Emeline, she loves to work hard. She also enjoys serving our community with The Girl Scouts (I think her leader is an angel..seriously). She enjoys Junior High activities at church which includes a Girl’s Bible study (LJ3), and an additional Bible study with a small group of lovely young ladies seeking to grow and mature in Jesus. Emeline has raised support for materials to make blankets for the homeless this winter. We have started delivering the blankets as a family. Heading downtown Philly made us all nervous at first, now we can’t wait to go back! Check out our blanket adventures, www.utterlydeb.blogspot.com

Samuel – We are both in fourth grade this year! Sam seems to be smarter than me! He is doing well. Recently he was asked to write a bio on himself. He wrote “I’m neat, I’m kind, and I love Jesus with all my heart.” He is so sensitive to what is right and what is wrong….we all need a ‘Sam’ around us! Sam loves to play Tackle Football, and Lacrosse. This year he ran the ball successfully quite a bit, scoring many touchdowns for the team. I’m always thankful he comes out of it alive every week! Sam’s latest hobby is “Trash Picking”. He has found some real treasures, and even sells items on e-bay to raise money for the Go-cart he would like to purchase. I guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!

Zachary – Is in second grade, ready to set the world on fire! Anyone who knows Zachary will tell you that he always has a smile on his face, and he is always ready to have fun! Sometimes that gets him in trouble. Zach is also on a travel soccer team, and loves the game. My challenge to Zachary is to always honor God with every goal he scores, because “it is in Him that we live, move, and have our being…”. Both boys participated in a Kids Triathlon last summer. They finished the race within a second of each other. Sam was just one step ahead of his little brother.

All three swam for LMT Swim Team this year. It is my favorite sport they do! This year I accepted the position of Co-Meet Director. What a big job…but oh the fun we had! Emeline participated in a relay that broke an LMT record….the thrill of it all! I LOVE our community!

Steve – is busy with the Snow business. He has a great team of “Snow People” working for him! I always pray for less stress for Steve, but there’s a part of it that he thrives on! Steve is the most amazing dad to our kids…..he plays, teaches, prays, and guides them daily. All three adore Steve. He just arrived home from a quick trip to Germany to celebrate a family 60th wedding anniversary. I was happy he was able to go, but happier when he came home safe and sound. The fall was busy for Steve with coaching Sam’s football team, and he enjoys attending a Men’s Bible study throughout the year.

Me – I celebrated a very large (really BIG) birthday this year! Friends came from near and far to celebrate this “Birthday girl”, yet I was celebrating them. I wanted to thank them for being my friend, for seeing the best in me, standing by me, laughing, and crying with me. For letting me be “real” with them…and still loving me. “A friend loves at all times.” Thank you sweet girlfriends! My life is richer for knowing each and every one of you! My ordinary days include interruptions to interrupt the interruptions! I hope to continue to substitute teach, I love working with kids! The Bible study I co-facilitate is going well; we are all growing and learning about God’s will in our lives. My daily goal for each day is to rest in Him, and His Word alone. Life is still utterly chaotic, yet we are utterly o.k.

In closing, I pray for God’s blessing on your families. Take the hands of those you love, look into their eyes, and tell them how much you love them! May your desire for 2011 be…”Reaching forward to what is ahead, pressing on toward the goal.” Philippians 3:13-14

By His Amazing Grace………….Stephen, Debbie, Emeline, Samuel, and Zachary

It Was Chilly In Philly!

2010-12-07T10:08:00.001-05:00

We set out on Saturday night to deliver blankets. It is a busy time of year, and other events were tempting us not to go.

We were all so nervous, especially Emeline! As we parked the car we all prayed and asked the Lord to calm our nerves, asking Him to help us minister to these people in need.

The first person we spotted was on the street sleeping. Steve insisted we first go buy him a cup of coffee. By the time we found a McDonald’s, the kids were hungry so we fed them. As we arrived back to the spot, the person was gone. We were disappointed, but trusted there was a reason.

Our next person was on the street covered completely except the top of her head. I approached her asking if she could use another blanket. Looking over the top of her “Heap”, she said “No”. There was so much fear in her eyes. The kids were disappointed to be turned down but we explained to them that some people are fearful and don’t want to interact in any way.

After driving around a park, we spotted a woman playing a flute-type instrument. It looked like something you might purchase at the dollar store. She was playing her instrument for money. The kids and I jumped out of the car and approached her. Soon we realized that Sheila was blind. Sam dropped a dollar in her cup, and then we asked her if she would like a blanket. What she needed from us was to help her. She was on a corner that was too cold for her; she wanted to move but needed our help. Sam grabbed her cooler filled with her belongings, and I extended my arm to walk her to a less windy spot. It turns out Sheila is a Christian, and loves Jesus. She has been blind since birth, and has no family at all. She earns money by playing the instrument on the street. We bought Sheila hot apple cider and a cookie (that is what she wanted), and we gathered around her, held hands, and prayed with her. My boys especially did not want to leave Sheila, it broke their heart, and they kept hugging her. Sheila loved the blanket. For her the softness of the blanket, and “touch” is what blessed her. She knew it would be nice and warm!

After a decision to not stop for a guy who seemed drunk and obnoxious, we found our last person on the street covered with a blanket trying to keep warm. This gentleman Russell has lymphoma and is dying. He has a daughter, but does not hear from her. Russ said the shelters are dangerous; he would rather sleep on the street. He told us that drugs destroyed his life and he spent 10 year in prison. We shared Jesus with him and prayed with him. With tears in his eyes, he thanked us for the blanket and the Bible. After getting back in the car we wanted to go buy him some soup, so Emeline and I returned with soup, bread, and hot apple cider (the homeless like the hot cider!). As we approached Russell with the food he was reading Emeline’s letter she wrote…..the inspiration behind the blankets.

We returned home that night with happy but heavy hearts. We were happy to serve these people, but sad for their life. Our home, heat, bed, blankets, and food seemed so extravagant that night. We praised and thanked God for all He has provided for us. We can’t wait to go again!

Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

By His Amazing Grace,

Debbie

Am Impactful Moment

2010-11-27T21:03:00.002-05:00

It's been a long time since I've blogged. Life has kept me busy with the book my mom and I are having published. Wanting to get back to my "Online journal", I thought Thanksgiving would be a good place to start. The last six months of my life have brought many ups and downs, but there hasn't been a day gone by that I haven't been thankful. In fact I've become more thankful for each and every day of my life.

I wanted to share our Thanksgiving Day. Emeline has been making blankets for the homeless. She raised money for the materials and hopes to share the love of Jesus with many cold, empty people.

Happy Thanksgiving! I pray you all enjoyed a special day with those you love!

Steve, I, and the kids had the honor and privilege of serving downtown at Rock Ministries in Philadelphia. This was our first experience at Rock. The blessings and favor God has shed on this ministry was overwhelming to say the least.

Emeline gave the first blanket away today with a Bible, track, and a personal note from her (all wrapped in a big beautiful bow). You know it’s one thing when God gives me a vision…it’s another thing when God gives one of my kids a vision. I have been praying for weeks as to how we will guide Emeline in her “Blankets of Blessings.” Steve encouraged Emeline today to pray and see if she saw a person in the crowd that the Lord would have her give a blanket to, reminding her it is in our service that God speaks to our hearts. As Emeline was filling sugars on the tables (for coffee), she spotted a woman and asked Steve to go over with her. Although I was busy working in another area, Steve came over with tears in his eyes sharing what took place, and asked me to come meet this special woman Dawn. Dawn was a Christian yet fallen in to a life of drugs. She has been clean for seven months and was now “hitting the wall”. Apparently this means that life is really awful and unbearable…..hopeless…dark…Dawn explained to Emeline that she has wanted a Bible for a long time and the blanket uplifted her and blessed her…..she really loved it! With Steve and I standing there Dawn turned to Emeline and spoke words to her that seemed prophetic……it blew me away. It was humbling to hear, she was exhorting Emeline…my heart was touched as I fought back tears (Steve too). As I looked over at Emeline, she was radiating Jesus…..it was clear the Spirit was about her.

We had to leave a little early to join our friends for Thanksgiving. Dawn asked me to wait just five minutes, she had something for Emeline. I couldn’t think of what she would give Emeline. I looked over and saw her with a paper towel drawing. She drew Emeline three beautiful tulips with a special note. Dawn did not know how much Emeline loves art and would appreciate this……someday when she gets to heaven she will realize how she impacted the life of a young girl…..Thanksgiving Day 2010…

Praise God from whom ALL blessings (blankets) flow!

“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” Colossians 3:17

By His amazing grace……

Debbie

A Tribute To My Dad

2010-05-27T09:37:00.003-04:00

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

On April 26th this verse came alive and penetrated my soul.

After the initial call that my dad took a fall we began a journey that twisted and turned for 3 ½ weeks. The “New norm” became the unknown and the center of our Universe became Jefferson Hospital.

We were thankful to have my dad in one of the best hospitals. It was a comfort for us to know that although my dad was having complications, surely the top notch medical professionals would figure it all out and make my dad well again. In addition so many were praying for my dad. After a week of him being down right entertaining and funny (oh the stories we have to tell!) due to assumed anesthesia delirium, he went in to a coma like state, and it became more and more confusing as to why his mental status was failing. Numerous tests, scans, and MRI’s confirmed there was nothing medically wrong with my dad, yet a cascade of events led us down a road of realizing dad’s body was shutting down and no one knew why.

So many were praying for a miracle… On May 19th God chose to take my dad home.

We never got the answers we were looking for but I can tell you this. We got the answers we needed for the moment, to take the very next step. Our walk with God became a moment by moment process. There were days we did not know what to do or how to make decisions, yet He truly guided our path. Our circumstances were difficult, but our strength was sufficient.

On behalf of our family I want to thank so many of you who gave of yourselves continuously and effortlessly over the last month to help our family and my mom. We knew we were being lifted up, at times we felt as if we were being carried. There were times when no words could explain the despair in our hearts, yet we knew God did.

So we look back on this time in our lives as bittersweet. We have suffered a loss; my dad will be missed dearly. As my mom and I wept by my dad’s bed after he passed she said “I never doubted for a minute that he loved me….no woman has been loved as much as me”. For a woman who never boasts or brings attention to herself, that was a powerful statement I will never forget. A parade of doctors and nurses came to pay their respects with tears in their eyes. Mom and I were able to share our hope that we will see my dad again in heaven…..he was no longer in the body in the bed, dad was standing face to face with Jesus looking into his eyes. It was an honor to give God the glory in such a difficult time.

There was one doctor who touched our lives in a way that keeps me wondering if she was an angel sent by God. She reached out, entered into our world, and walked the journey with us to the end. Thank you Dr. Kumar.

In the midst of my dad’s delirium and before he went into a coma like sleep he called my mom and I over to his bedside. It was to be his last lucid moment of his life. He shared a few special words of encouragement to me and he told my mom he loved her one last time…then he told us it will all be over. I guess he knew he was getting ready to go home.

I will miss my dad and our coffee hour every Friday morning. I was consistently 10 – 15 minutes late, yet I was always greeted with a big smile, we both looked forward to our time together.

Thank you for coming to share our tribute to dad, we love and appreciate all of you, and thank you for your prayers, and being such a special part of our lives.

Grace and blessings,

Debbie

Six Simple Lives

2010-04-21T22:35:00.001-04:00

Life just seems at times to be spinning out of control. I know all us moms feel like this and our challenge is to stop the freight train, put the brakes on, keep a balance…..yet it’s a constant battle!

Having three active kids they want to be involved in many activities. Truth be told they all have athletic abilities so it’s a thrill for this competitive gal to stand on the side lines and scream my little heart out for my guys and doll. Whether it’s a tournament, cup, or league game it’s a joy to see these three healthy children love a sport and be a part of a team.

Yesterday I substituted in an Autistic classroom. It was my first experience with special needs kids. My mom has a Masters degree in Special Education so I’ve sort of grown up knowing about special needs people, and I have a nephew who is severely handicapped (including autistic). At first I was unsure of myself around the kids, I wasn’t sure if they would be o.k. with a stranger in the room. These kids need and love their routine.

I didn’t expect a warm greeting by them, and I was pleasantly surprised a few of them greeted me at all! I couldn’t help but want to just observe them and realize how special they each were and how God must love them so much. Life in the classroom for these kids was simple. After each class activity they were asked to take out their “happy face” papers and record their feelings. I was pleased to see all happy faces! They often were required to check their schedules so they knew what was next.

With six kids in the class came six very different personalities and needs. Some were verbal and others had more difficulty. One boy was awarded a sweet tart just for trying to talk during speech class. Another boy carried a voice box and every time he needed to answer he would type his answer in the box and the box spoke to us.

Six special lives. I thought about the home life and how difficult it must be to have a child like this, one who can’t communicate, is handicapped socially, and academically. It occurred to me these children most likely will not play sports, all the activities my kids do they won’t. Yet I can still see the smiles on their faces. They have a life, just different. Tying a shoe lace may bring one great joy. Completing a simple frog craft is a huge accomplishment!

I found myself humbled. My heart was blessed for being in the presence of these special kids, watching them live their life as they know it. Grateful for the reminder of what life is all about. Life is about lives and relationships. Investing time into the ones we love. It’s not about how good we are in sports, what we’ve achieved in life financially, or how successful we’ve become. For me, life is about knowing Jesus, walking with Him daily, reading my Bible, and praying. Abiding in Christ gives me all the balance and security I need. When the hard times come (and there are hard times), my strength comes from HIM.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
Grace and blessings,

Debbie

It Looks Good!

2010-03-11T15:00:00.005-05:00

As we rang in 2010, I somehow knew this would be a year for change. It made me nervous, change can be good and change can be…well, not so good. Which would it be, maybe a combination of both? The older I get the more I celebrate each day. Don’t get me wrong, this doesn’t mean everyday is worth celebrating, in fact there are some days I would like to forget. I’m just more sensitive to everything that I have. I am most of all thankful to know God. I have a personal relationship with Jesus that I wouldn’t trade for anything. I value my family and the relationships God has blessed me with. I’m not a perfect wife, mom, or friend, but I’m thankful God’s mercies are new everyday…WHEW!!!

Everything changed on January 5th. A large envelope came Fed-X to my attention. Standing in the kitchen I opened the envelope and read the letter. “CONGRATULATIONS, YOUR BOOK HAS BEEN ACCEPTED FOR ROYALTY PUBLICATION!” I started to tremble. Who knew the book my mom and I took a year to write would be accepted? I knew it was a good idea, but a publishable book? That was a moment in time I will never forget.

Then the work began. The book was accepted on its story but now we needed to write segments to make the book sell like the foreword, epilogue, and back matter. I never heard of a back matter before in fact I went and googled it wrong typing in “back splatter”! Don’t do that, it’s basically poop on the back of the toilet YUCK!!!! After having the work checked by editors and special help from a friend, and three months of chenging, we finally submitted our manuscript to the publisher. Fully expecting to hear we did something wrong in the submission process, hoping they wouldn't laugh at it, I was just glad to get it off my plate and in the hands of the publisher so they could begin their critique process.

Today I checked my e-mail, “We received your manuscript and it looks good.” Those were sweet words to my soul. I wasn’t looking for great, good is just fine with me!! O.K. so they went on to say someone will be in touch next week to begin the editing process and they did mention the book has a high word count for Children’s books but that’s o.k. for today its fine…….

Writing a book is an accomplishment, yet the accomplishment doesn’t come without a lot of hard work. As I re-read what was submitted, I can still make so many changes yet at some point it was necessary to just step out, click send, and pray for the best!!

So much of life is about us doing our best and letting God do the rest. When we walk with Him and abide in Him He takes care of us and directs our steps.

Grace and blessings,

Debbie

Sam's first Water Polo Tournament

2010-02-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

As the mom I try to find different sports to suit my kid’s personality. At their ages I want them to experience several different sports. Emeline has recently developed a love for soccer. What makes her so good (besides her big “foot”) is her aggressiveness. The trainers love a kid that isn’t afraid to back down…it’s exciting to watch, especially for a girl who broke bones for two years and could not participate in any type of sports activities. Zachary also loves soccer and will try out for the travel team for the fall. All three are good swimmers.

Sam loves tackle football. He talked about it for years and finally this past fall he played for the township, Steve was the assistant coach. There are not many moms out there who love their son playing football. Most of us tolerate the sport because either our husbands or son (or both) are dying for them to play. Wanting to find another sport for Sam, knowing he was a good swimmer, we inquired about a water polo team. Sam started playing water polo with mostly older kids. I’m not use to seeing Sam look like the “runt” out there but in this sport he’s the “baby”. I have tried to keep Sam away from tournaments. Just letting him play during the week once is enough. With several tournaments in the last few weeks the coach really wanted Sam to experience one of them. So off we all went to support Sam at Villanova University. As expected Sam sat most of the time on the side of the pool. Each time he went in the water we were so proud of him. O.K. so he only got the ball once and the opponent immediately stole it away but we’re the parents…all parents are proud!!

The team had two games back to back. The first game was tight, Sam’s team was losing so he didn’t see much playing time. In fact I think one time he was in for @ thirty seconds. The next game Sam’s team was winning so the coach was a bit more generous with putting the weaker kids in. As expected each player has an opponent they are required to cover. It was apparent that Sam wasn’t sure what to do so the coach was yelling and making all kinds of hand gestures to Sam that didn’t look universal to me nor Sam. Sam’s interpretation to what the coach was trying to tell him was to just dunk the opponent. So there was Sam out in the pool, ball nowhere near him, trying to dunk another player (poor guy looked like he was drowning). I knew Sam had no ill intent but the child and his coach didn’t know that. The game was stopped and Sam had to have a talk with the ref. Sam didn’t see much more time in the pool after that.

Most of the time at sports events our kids are doing well, giving us good reason to cheer and be proud. Last night was a good example of how as a parents, we don’t care how well our kids perform, we think they’re just the greatest thing since sliced bread right?? WE want them to have fun and enjoy the healthy bodies they have been blessed with.

After all it is “In Him that we live, and move, and have our being.” Acts 17:28

Grace and blessings,

Nor'easter Slams The East

2010-02-06T13:08:00.002-05:00

It’s hard to believe only five days ago I was in sunny California. It’s wasn’t exactly hot but I was able to wear shorts and a lightweight shirt….oh, and sunglasses all the time…oh, and fun girlfriends who kept me laughing for four days straight..oh, and a husband who freely let me go, took care of the kids, and cleaned the house! THANK YOU STEVE, you’re the best!

Today I’m wondering how I’ll dig six kids and myself out of over twenty inches of snow! Months ago when I heard my girlfriend was headed to NY I offered to take her boys. I love these kids (and my girlfriend). The weekend promised to be busy. Moving them from one activity to another would be a “piece of cake”. Five basketball games and a birthday party for Sam would keep them all out of trouble or from bothering one another. As the weekend approached it was apparent all plans would be cancelled, a big Nor’easter was dumping snow and rain over much of the mid to southern section of the country, which also meant Steve would be gone for days working. I started to wonder what on earth I would do with five boys and one girl by myself. They don’t like arts and crafts. If it snowed they wouldn’t want to be outside, other than the typical twenty minutes of fun (when it took you and hour to dress them all).

I knew I needed a plan. When this group of kids get together all they want to do is play the wii, striving for the next level, thrilled over the challenge…Mario rules!!! They would play all day and night if I let them, only coming up to eat and drink when necessary. I decided to plan a schedule, limiting the wii time and any other type of electronic activities. I got the paper out with them and we created a wii schedule as well as other types of activities for them to do, chores were included.

Once you’re snowed in with kids, one needs to take on a certain mind set…..FLEXIBILITY and CREATIVITY! It is obviously not a day to think you can get anything done, or do anything for yourself. You’re lucky if you get to eat! Having lots of snacks and drinks is essential. Getting annoyed with wet snow tracking through your house is self destructive, for goodness sakes it’s just water. Rewarding myself with coffee and chocolate keeps me alert and smiling.

Have a great day!! Go sledding with the kids! Help your neighbors dig out! Laugh at those great kids you have! EAT CHOCOLATE!

Blessings,

Debbie

Oh The Pain!

2010-01-23T08:01:00.003-05:00

Did you ever wonder why we experience so much pain? Whether it’s physical or emotional it’s overwhelming when it consumes you. This last year has been a year of physical pain. First I was diagnosed with osteo-arthritis in my hands which seemed terrible yet five months later after a scare with possible cancer I was diagnosed with fifteen kidney stones OUCH! In addition my cholesterol is high and needs attention. The latest ailment came this week, I woke up one day with pain in my neck. Since I was already seeing a physical therapist for my tennis elbow (just a side bar) I decided to go for my neck. It was determined I aggravated a muscle in my shoulder that was radiating the pain to the neck. As the week went on it became increasingly worse to the point it affected my swallowing and breathing. Finally the doctor ordered an X-ray. My biggest fear would be a diagnosis of arthritis, that seemed unbearable and why would God allow that to happen to this very active already “medically challenged” mom of three WHO LOVES TO PLAY TENNIS? Somehow I knew what the diagnosis would be before it came. It’s the things in life we say “Absolutely Not!” that God seems to challenge us on.

How did I know? God was preparing my heart. As I made desperate calls to a few close friends asking them to specifically pray this was not arthritis I also spent time in prayer and reading the Bible. “He remembered us when we were in trouble, His love continues forever.” Psalm 136:23

A devotional I read from Max Lucado yesterday included this paragraph “When God doesn’t do what we want, it’s not easy. Never has been, never will be. But faith is the conviction that God knows more than we do about this life and He will get us through it.” Somehow I knew after reading yesterday the news wasn’t going to be good but I knew it would be o.k. because God would walk with me and take care of me.

Our disappointments in life don’t have to keep us down. With God’s help we learn how to manage them and use them to bring honor and glory to His name. We learn to lean on Him when we have pain whether it is physical or emotional. It also makes us more compassionate to others that are hurting.

I once heard someone say “When you’re fifty you can go to sleep fine and wake up with any injury.” I’m not quite there but very close and I can tell you the statement is true.

“Those who are sad now are happy, because God will comfort them. Those who want to do right more than anything else are happy, because God will fully satisfy them.” Matthew 5:4,6

By the grace of God today I choose joy.

Grace and blessings,

Debbie

God's Peace in 2010

2010-01-01T09:56:00.002-05:00

January 1st is not a day when I make a lot of changes. Resolutions have not been “my thing”, it is the fall, September when the kids go back to school that I make any changes. Eating better (not so many sweets!), chores for the kids, schedule changes, new goals, always praying to bring peace and contentment on the home front. One thing I have learned over the years is to not overcommit myself. That never works for my family or me. I can tell when it is happening, I start to feel very anxious inside, and like I’m disappointing everyone around me.

As I look ahead into this New Year I see so many changes and potential changes coming for 2010. Most are good an exciting, some are unknown causing apprehension. I find in the times I am unsure I try to control and help the situation along…..after all, we all like to stay within the comfort zone of life with no boats rocking around us right?

With the New Year comes change whether we like it or not, and most of us don’t like change, it feels unsettling. As we reflect next year on this day will we have a smile on our face or sadness in our heart?

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27.

I am thankful God knows what each day will entail for me and my family…..He orders our steps. As I think of all the specific changes that will take place this year I know that God is with me and it is His faithfulness and peace that I can count on. As I wake up each day and commit my day to Him through prayer and reading the Bible, I know that no matter what changes come it will be o.k. my heart is at peace knowing God is in control.

My daily prayer for 2010: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. To these I will commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek His grace. And then, when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.

Happy New Year! May you find peace in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. I pray His light shines powerfully into your heart.

Sweet blessings to you and your families!

Debbie

"Where's The Fat Santa?"

2009-12-14T10:56:00.003-05:00

The young proud father held his baby girl in his arms, “This is her first Christmas and I want everything to be perfect!” The elf checking in customers for their visit and picture with Santa just shrugged his shoulders, after all it wasn’t his problem the Santa the mall hired this year wasn’t fat! “We’ll wait for the fat Santa”, the young man said in a huff as he stepped out of line.

This was a clip from a television show last week and although I laughed hysterically, what a reality check it was. Although I’ve never been concerned about Santa’s weight I can certainly think of many incidents that pull at that desire to have “Everything perfect”

It started with the tree. First we named him “ Sheldon” which was a mistake because there’s an instant attachment when you name anything! For the first time ever I thought we needed to return our tree. Upon its arrival into the living room, he started raining needles, you could hear them pouring onto the rug. Since we have our tree up for a month, if Sheldon kept raining needles it would look like the Charlie Brown tree in a week! Steve convinced me Sheldon was in shock and would be o.k. The next crisis was as I stood there with the last ornament to place on the tree all the lights went out. A friend sitting on my sofa watching told us we shouldn’t hook up any more then three strands of lights together. Well, we had at least ten strands! My electrician Steve fixed it all so that Sheldon is plugged into a few different outlets, whew….after all that, Sheldon is a beauty!!

We all have our expectations of what Christmas should look like. For some it is the way the house is decorated, for others it is the gifts they buy (and receive!). The older I get (and I am getting old!) I realize and am content with the “imperfectness” of my life. Christmas cookies have been burnt, lights continue to short circuit, but it represents what “the norm” is. Yesterday Emeline had her sweet friend Nell over. I enjoy watching these two girls, they jump from one activity to another. Yesterday they created a gingerbread house together. It turned out nice and beautiful but they replaced one of my favorite Christmas decorations with their house! Of course I couldn’t say anything but I was disappointed to see MY favorite piece tossed aside…

As I look around I chuckle. Lights are out that should be on, fragile item have been broken, candy has been eaten off the calendar on dates that aren’t here yet, and my favorite Christmas centerpiece has been rejected.
Yet..My heart is content…without the people I love around me life would be different. My house without them would look perfect…someday they’ll be gone and I’ll miss it all!

Enjoy the “imperfectness” of the holiday, laugh with the people you love, and remember Christmas is about how God came down and gave us Himself……EMBRACE THE PERFECT GIFT!

Blessings, Debbie

A Committed Fullback

2009-10-12T22:06:00.004-04:00

After a busy summer of fun we are full swing into fall with school and sports. Our kids have played soccer for many years on our church league. This year we ventured out into our community which we love. Samuel was ready for tackle football and Emeline wanted to “have at it” on the travel soccer team. Since Zachary is the third child he must be flexible until any talent arises (which it has). He plays soccer as well.

Emeline started playing soccer when she was little like most kids. She and her friends would pick flowers while the coach was screaming for them to be out on the field. At the time she was also dancing and doing more “girly” type things like wear dresses and have her mother paint her nails. When Emeline turned seven she started breaking bones, her “klutzy” stage lasted for two years. After many casts and no sports she tried soccer again last year on our church league. People (including her mother) could hardly believe this was the same girl we once knew. Sweet Emeline was aggressive and ready to rumble out on the field. Her focus and desire was clear….she wanted the ball and a goal.

Emeline is enjoying her time playing for the “Torches”. She is a light to those who know her and meet her, encouraging her other teammates. As for her defensive skills? She’s a fighter who commits and won’t stop until the ball is headed up field again for the offensive players to do their job.

I cannot help but scream my head off. Now I’m not the quietest person in the world but I’m also not known for my screaming, in fact some would say I’m rather soft spoken. Well, not on the soccer field anyway. I either need to stop going to the games or tape my mouth shut, otherwise I can’t seem to help myself…the competitor in me surfaces every time!

I am proud of Emeline, sometimes it makes me cry to think that God would bless me with such a delightful person who happens to be my daughter. Although I’m supposed to be leading her and guiding her, she often teaches me so much about kindness and compassion..mercy and grace.

Blessings,

Debbie

Where's The Bus?

2009-09-09T22:22:00.001-04:00

Today was the first day of school for the kids. There’s nothing that will bring the summer season to a screeching halt like the alarm going off at 6:30 to RISE and SHINE! We knew the day was coming, it was no surprise, yet for some reason at least in our family things never go quite as smooth as a mom would like.

Over the summer I bought the boys new sneakers for the first day of school. My boys are specific about their shoes (like their mom). The colors, shoe laces, and style all have to work. Today as Sam and Zachary put their shoes on they both complained the shoes didn’t fit. Zachary had a half way decent pair of shoes to wear, Sam had nothing but a beat up old pair of smelly shoes to wear on his first day of third grade.

I have a tradition on the first day of school to follow the bus. Many years ago before I had kids someone I knew followed the bus for her children on the first day of school and I thought it was one of the funniest things I had ever heard of. Now I follow the bus, it makes perfect sense to me!

This morning became utterly chaotic as two out of three kids did not want to get out of bed, alarms were ringing all over the house (no one responding). Meanwhile I’m trying to get myself ready to follow the bus yet trying to get a good breakfast in three bellies. Thank goodness the bus was late. After the kids boarded the bus I climbed into my car and headed for school trying to stay behind the bus. Of course the bus got ahead of me at a traffic light close to home and I never saw him again.

By the time I arrived at school bus #62 had arrived as well and my children all made it safely to their classrooms.

It’s a big adjustment going from constant interaction with kids all day to not having them home for eight hours. Part of me wanted to do the happy dance and part of me wanted to be sad and cry. I opted for the happy dance.

The summer was a whirlwind..so much fun..swim team, camps, traveling, and just enjoying having them around. No time for me to write, talk on the phone, or keep up any social schedule. Honestly I wouldn’t have it any other way. My life was consumed by them and for the most part I loved every minute of it.

So now it’s time for change..I’m ready and they’re ready. Back to schedule, chores, homework, and learning what it looks like to be a first, third and fifth grader.

Here’s to another school year!

Blessings,

Debbie

NOT GUILTY!

2009-09-02T23:15:00.004-04:00

It’s been four months since I was stopped by a police officer and received a moving violation. $109.00 in fees and three points against my record. “Failure to come to a complete stop at a stop sign.” I remember the night well. The kids and I were taking Emeline to soccer practice. I was on the phone with my mom discussing an important issue, the boys were fighting in the back seat, and I was yelling at them while trying to talk to my mom. Before I knew it I saw the red flashing lights behind me.

Being married to a man who frequents court for one reason or another insisted I request a trial to ask the judge to remove the points, so that is what I did. Today was the court date to appear. The kids thought I was going to play tennis when they heard the word "court"..nope not today. This was my first time in court and I expected to be the only one for my 9:00 appointment. I was stunned to realize many people just like me had a court date at the same time!!

I must admit I secretly prayed and asked the Lord to have my police offier on vacation. I heard that if that is the case they throw the case out. Then I wouldn’t have to face the guy again and feel like an idiot telling him and the judge why they should let me off the hook. After all the law is the law and apparently I disobeyed. I honestly don’t remember the stop sign that night. I’m sure I must have slowed down but no surprise that I basically blew through it!

The court room was fascinating, yet I was nervous, more then I’ve felt in a long time. I realized I had no iedea what to say when I approached the judge. I honestly didn’t remember what I did at the stop sign so the officer must be right yet I didn’t want to keep the points on my record. I started praying and asking God to help me know what to say.

Sure enough after several police officers came and went my officer was called by the judge but was not present. The judge called me up. I didn’t know what to say so I didn’t say anything, not even good morning! I waited for him to speak. The first words out of his mouth, “Let me guess, you were going to Mackelsfield Park”. Yep, smart guy he was, I guess I look like a soccer mom. He then told me that since the officer wasn’t there I am “Not Guilty” and my money for the ticket and court fees will be refunded. Still so nervous I quickly verified that the points would be removed as well. His response, “If you’re not guilty then you can’t have any points marked against your record.” OF COURSE NOT! Silly me, lucky me, blessed me!!

I serve a God of grace and mercy. The grace part is when we get something that we don’t deserve. The mercy part is when we don’t get something that we do deserve. According to the law I deserved to at least pay a fine. I was just pleased to have the points removed. To have both the points removed AND have my money refunded made my day. It was also a reminder to me of what Chrsit did for us. He came and died on the cross to save us from our sins. It is a gift, we don’t deserve it, we just have to accept it. Once we do, we’re deemed “NOT GUILTY”.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.” Romans 6:23.

Blessings,

Debbie

You Can Watch Your Bladder!

2009-08-19T22:43:00.001-04:00

It’s been over a month of running to the doctor’s, having tests and procedures to determine just what is causing some health problems. As it turns out there are several areas of concern requiring an immediate diagnosis. Today was a surgical procedure to have a good look at my bladder. Having been in the operating room before I assumed I would be sedated and wake up when it was all over. I was concerned when the hospital called yesterday to inform me of the arrival time and did not give me instructions for fasting. Everyone knows you need to fast before anesthesia! What were they thinking, was I going to be awake for all this?

Sure enough I was scheduled for a local anesthesia. After all the prep and signing my life away I was ushered back to the OR. Although all the equipment was impressive I was not looking forward to what was about to happen, there were TVs everywhere and I was informed I could watch the doctor do the procedure and see my bladder. “See my bladder? Can’t I just watch Good Morning America?” I couldn’t imagine who on earth would want to see their bladder! My personal nurse Greg, the person who would coach me through this procedure looked like he just came from the beach on his motorcycle.

One of the very best doctor’s in the country happened to be doing my surgery (thank you Lord). I knew I was in good hands.

Once the procedure started as expected I did not do well. I’m not sure what they gave me but it didn’t feel like anything was numb enough for anyone to be poking around! Trying to distract me Greg was helping me breath like I did during three natural childbirths. Fortunately Greg was big and strong because he had to physically hold me down or I would have jumped off the table. Thankfully, with the help of Greg and prayer, I/we made it through.

Although I’m not completely out of the woods today was a very good day, the doctor saw no cancer and no need to biopsy the area (that’s a good thing). Tomorrow is another procedure. Prayers are appreciated and welcomed.

Having to go through a time of such uncertainty really changes your/my perspective on things. It’s tough to think of what could be down the road but it forces you to come to terms with the sovereignty of God. Not easy, but necessary. I must daily make a choice whether I will worry and fret or whether I will commit my day to God and enjoy the day He has given me, just one day at a time. Our days are numbered, none of us know how long we will be here. I did not want to waste the month of August fretting about something that may or may not happen and miss the time with my kids and husband.

It is in the hard times that special friends step up to pray, and encourage. I thank God for all those people in my life, they know who they are.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

2009-08-19T22:43:00.000-04:00

An Unexpected Birthday Surprise

2009-08-09T22:26:00.005-04:00

“Daddy Help!” “Hold onto the pole!” “Ouch, Daddy Help!” “Grab the pole!” “Run Emeline, RUN!”

For Emeline’s tenth birthday she chose to spend the afternoon turtle hunting. This is Emeline’s favorite form of entertainment and passion as she enters the “tween” years. This sport is not for the thrill seekers or those demanding instant gratification. Turtle hunting can rank right up there with watching paint dry!

Knowing how much Emeline loves to find and catch turtles we all set out to support our favorite ten year old. We live close to a canal where creatures such as snakes, frogs, minnows, crayfish and others live. The rangers know us as well as frequent canal goers!

Walking on the canal is quite peaceful and tranquil I must admit. Once I start walking I get lost in God’s creation and am keenly aware of all the little creative ways God shows us just how wonderful and majestic He is. Today was no different. I was several steps ahead of Steve and the kids with my eyes fixed on the canal determined to find a small turtle to help Emeline. That is when I heard all the commotion behind me. Emeline was screaming, Steve was trying to get her out of the canal. They were obviously in some sort of trouble but I couldn’t tell what.

Emleine had stepped on a bee’s nest and they came at her and Steve with a vengeance. Emeline looked like she was doing the 50 yard dash and screaming her head off when I realized what was happening. They bit her twice on the face, on the back, and on her finger. OUCH!!!!

Would she continue or want to go home and have a good cry? We kept going, a lesson was learned…always check the brush near the water for bee’s nests before plunging into the canal. It’s actually a good life lesson. There are often times in my own life when I’ve got my eyes set on a goal I want to accomplish and I don’t see the “CAUTION” sign in front of me.UGH!

The beauty of our day was when Emeline caught her little turtle she set out for. It was God’s birthday gift to her, and we thank HIM for it!

“A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.” Proverbs 1:5

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMELINE, WE LOVE YOU!!!

Debbie

A Girl's Day Out

2009-08-05T22:42:00.007-04:00

For Emeline’s 10th birthday this year we decided in lieu of a big party to do a few different activities with smaller groups. Today was a tea date for Emeline and her girlfriend. They are both turning ten within a few weeks of each other and are new friends. I pray long and hard for Emeline’s relationships, a mother’s heart is delighted to see a beautiful friendship blossom.

Watching Emeline get dressed and style her hair was entertaining to say the least. My once “Frilly” girl turned “Tom boy” winced as she put her peach dress on realizing that she had no dressy shoes. No problem, we just tapped into the “give away” bin for anything that would come close to her shoe size and look fancy. Once the dress was on I was advised it was too itchy, what would we do? At her mother’s request she wore it anyway. The date started off with an itchy dress and shoes that didn’t quite fit. Her hair wouldn’t stay curled, but none of this stopped Emeline from looking forward to her date for tea.

Once we picked up Annaleisa I couldn’t help but chuckle to hear the same challenges. “My hair won’t stay curled”, “my shoes are killing me”, were some of her comments, just like Emeline. Two adorable girls all dressed up and their feet were killing them! I told them they only had to wear the killer shoes into the restaurant and then they could take them off, that made them happy.

When we arrived at the tea house I had a table reserved just for them. What a joy to watch the girls act all grown up and enjoy one another. The shoes and sore feet remained an ongoing issue but we all laughed and the girls couldn’t wait to put their flip flops and crocs on to make their feet happy once again.

As a mom I pray often for Emeline’s friendships. This is the age where their bodies start changing along with their emotions. I often encourage her to know what the bible says about friendships (choose your friends wisely) and how to treat others. My heart is blessed to see God bring such a sweet friend along side Emeline. Annaleisa has blessed Emeline and our family and we are grateful for that.

“Iron sharpens iron: so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. Proverbs 27:17

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

Anyone Thirsty?

2009-07-19T22:13:00.004-04:00

With two days of battling the heat, humidity, and especially the wind, our USTA tennis team pulled out a win advancing us to the final play offs today. Ten teams narrowed down to two was sure to bring a nail biting experience!

As my partner and I drove to the courts today I couldn’t imagine a better day to play tennis. I had a good nights sleep, ate nutritious (well sort of) food, and was able to make it to church this morning nourishing my soul. The pastor specifically spoke about how Christ represents living water in our lives. When we drink of water to quench our thirst we will thirst again, but if we drink from the living water of having Christ in our lives, we will never spiritually thirst again. As I sat in church I thought how much water I have consumed over these last few days. We actually wheeled a cooler down on the court for ourselves to drink water during the matches. There was so much water it seemed as though we could stay out on the courts for weeks and not go thirsty.

Today was different. We had the same amount of water going into our final match (maybe more), yet little did we know we were in for a battle of the weekend. Anyone who plays tennis tends to sum up their opponents in the warm up. Who has the better serve, who has a weak back hand, etc? Today I underestimated our opponents and it cost us the match. We easily took the first few games and I was feeling mighty fine. Unfortunately the other team happened to be steadier then us and we found ourselves in a first set tie break and lost it. Needing to take the second set to have a chance to win we came out strong and took the second set 6-4. I would rather play a complete third set but the officials ruled to do third set tie breakers. We lost 10-8 in the third set tie break..

To non-tennis players many of these numbers don’t mean much but to us they mean a lot. The match was so close it could have gone either way at any point. Today it went in our opponents’ favor. Someone has to win and someone has to loose. I’m still not settled that the losers had to be us!!

After licking my wounds a bit I need to get back on the saddle and get myself ready for New Jersey Districts. I have the privilege of being on another team who won in their flight.

Surprisingly, today we drank all the water. We battled in the hot sun for over two hours. The icy cold drinks were gone, the ice had melted, and our hearts were heavy as we walked off the courts as the defeated team. I knew we lost to a weaker team and I also knew it would haunt me for days. That’s sports…winner takes it all and the looser must fall. I can eventually accept that but I’m thankful there are no losers amongst God’s children, only winners. Drinking from the material things of this world will not satisfy, leaving us thirstier with heavy hearts. Drinking from the spiritual living water of Jesus Christ, we will never thirst again, God promises us that.

“Jesus said unto her,” Whoever drinks of this waster will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” “ John 4:13-14

Blessings,

Debbie

Where's your security?

2009-06-29T08:57:00.001-04:00

With summer in full swing it’s utterly chaotic but lots of fun. Before the first day of summer I had a schedule for the kids to include daily activities, chores, and reading yet striving to keep a balance of play time with each of them.

My heart especially desires to invest time and energy in Emeline and the changes that lie ahead for her. You know the “girl” thing. Changes to the body, drama with the peers, etc. Last fall a friend recommended a mother/daughter devotional study which Emeline and I are enjoying everyday together. Topics such as “A Pure Heart”. ‘Dangerous Company”, “Who’s right?”, “Friends Forever” are included as well as others.

All girls at times feel like they are misunderstood, don’t fit in, rejected, etc. As a mom I want to fix it, after all I’m older and wiser right? Older yes but wiser is an ongoing daily process. I often find myself telling her what to do and say when she hits a “blip” in her road of relationships. Instead of fixing the situation I’m realizing I need to help Emeline understand who she is in Christ, she is His daughter. Being secure in Jesus and His love is her ultimate hope in this world.

As I’m studying this issue with Emeline, I’m also realizing that I too need continual work in this area. Often feelings of inadequacies creep into my head about the wife, mother, daughter, and friend I am. Measuring my success against what the world dictates is a train wreck in the making. Knowing who I am in Christ gives me a fresh start each day as I open my Bible to read and spend time praying, inviting God to be a part of my mind, thought process, and heart creates a security that no one can take away.

“May He enlighten the eyes of your mind so that you can see what hope His call holds for you.” Ephesians 1:18

Blessings,

Debbie

You Cruise You Loose!

2009-06-20T21:38:00.002-04:00

Any swimmer can tell you what a millisecond is. It’s 1000th of a point. Who cares? They do!

Today was our annual swim team invitational fund raiser. With a team 300 strong of kids between the ages of five and eighteen the energy is high as the crocs and gators turn out to compete against their age groups as well as beat their lowest times.

As with any sport you have the kids that are just in it to have fun and the kids anxious to come in first and beat their time. I love the relaxed swimmers who are happy to finish as well as the feisty ones wanting to know their place and time as their hand (or head) hits the wall. With all three of my kids on the team Sam is the one putting no pressure on himself. When he races he’s pulling as hard as he can and is pleased to win the race, yet just as happy if his friend comes in ahead of him. Emeline and Zachary are more concerned with their times and placement. Events, heats, and lane placement…..it all matters!!

Emeline excels in the backstroke. With a first place in her heat for the freestyle she was confident for the same in the 50M backstroke. She had a strong start and made her turn in first, yet at the end the gal swimming right next to her pulled ahead and won the race by three milliseconds!

In the 2008 summer Olympics Michael Phelps won the gold for the 100M fly by 1/100th of a second. As one headline said “You cruise you loose”. The difference was so minute that it was invisible to the naked eye, it was only confirmed electronically. In that last 1/100th of a second, Cavic (the other swimmer) glided and Phelps stretched touching the wall first. Although Phelps did not think he would win the race, he didn’t give up.

Last week I played in a USTA tennis match with someone I not only hadn’t played with before, but I really didn’t know her as a person. Would she be nervous? Would our game styles compliment one another? The team is on a track for advancing to play-offs so our court mattered! Our first set didn’t go so well. My partner turned to me as we were down 4-1 and said “We have a bit of a climb ahead of us”. Giving up the first set put pressure on us to win the second. God and I had a talk in the beginning of the second set, I committed my all to Him playing one point at a time. Winning the second set 6-1 and then the third 6-2 was a great feeling. We played hard and didn’t give up, we came from behind and finished well.

In sports you can’t slack off, “If you cruise you’ll loose”. If our competitive edge can bring a drive and determination to sports, surely we can bring it to the areas of our life that are much more important—our marriages, our parenting, and our relationship with God. After all, “It is in Him that we live, move, and have our being.”

Blessings

Debbie

A Week Long Siesta

2009-06-12T20:47:00.004-04:00

Spending the last week in a country where siestas are practically mandatory, I’ve become accustomed to and enjoyed one Big Siesta of a good time! Whether it was reconnecting with Steve, eating delicious foods, enjoying the beautiful Tuscany region, or just sitting drinking several cups of cappuccino (thanks to jet lag) watching interesting people, the time was relaxing and my heart was renewed and refreshed.

Of course no trip goes off without mishaps and stress, just being in a foreign country makes you feel like, well a foreigner. Without much knowledge of the language my communication became formal and deliberate. Leaving three children back in the states kept me in constant communication by e-mail with “on-line” parenting when necessary. Receiving funny updates kept me smiling yet I missed my guys and doll terribly (I don’t think the feeling was mutual).

The main reason I chose Italy, specifically Tuscany, was to experience a cooking class with Steve for his birthday. A reliable source directed me to the Sienna Art and Cooking school for our special event. I imagined a group of really fun people watching and learning from a chef how to make amazing Italian (Tuscan of course) food. After we observed the famous chef we would all eat wonderful food!

Upon arrival at the school we were introduced to the main chef and host of the evening. Since she could not speak English we had a student interpreter from Utah. This blonde haired blue eyed adorable gal did not fit my imagined setting, but she was cute and nice so I tolerated her “Utah-ian” accent as she struggled to interpret the famous chef.

Before I knew it I was cleaning and chopping 8 pounds of asparagus. Anyone who knows me well knows I NEVER do anything in water without my rubber gloves on! They don’t seem to use rubber gloves in Italy. Some guests were assigned more glamorous jobs like making the dessert. It was a chocolate tart with sugared pears fanned on the top, yummy! I did get a chance to cut and fan a pear (WOW!).

At last the time came for us all to eat our creations! The chef knew ahead of time it was Steve’s birthday. As it came time for us to eat dessert the lights went out and in marched the chef (grinning from ear to ear) with an assistant carrying the beautiful tart, lit candle and all. As we were singing happy birthday, I quickly reached for my camera to take a picture, and that fast the tart was on the floor. The assistant tripped and the tart flipped up in the air and “splatted” right before our eyes! Let me just say it was a good thing the chef didn’t have a butcher knife in her hand, she was devastated and hot! I wasn’t sure who I felt worse for, the chef, the assistant, or us! The assistant was sent home and the chef stormed out of the dining room. Once our shock subsided us students picked up the tart carefully and ate the part that didn’t touch the ground, the five second rule is universal! We all laughed hysterically yet at the same time felt bad for the mishap. We enjoyed our unusual cooking class together.

Being so far away has made me feel out of touch with my life as a mom yet very much engaged with the days in Italy with Steve. The birthday celebration is officially over. Now it’s time to kick back into life as I know it. The duties of wife, mom, disciplinarian, encourager, taxi driver, manager, friend, tennis partner, chef,…you know, all the different hats us gals wear on a daily basis. After all there’s no place like home.

Blessings,

Debbie

The Big Event

2009-06-06T14:04:00.000-04:00

Sitting with a friend on the soccer field last fall I listened to her share the plans she had for her husband who wouldn’t turn forty for 1 ½ years. Talk about organized and a planner! When I told my friend that Steve is also turning forty but doesn’t want a party, she said, “Neither does my husband but I’m giving him one anyway.” I was already tentatively planning a trip for Steve and me to go to Italy. Of course that meant confiscating all of his frequent flier miles to go and a limited budget, but I had saved my pennies for years to do something special.

Nine months later, on May 30th I threw a surprise birthday party for Steve. When I originally spoke to the caterer I estimated between 45-50 guests. “Your numbers grew” replied the caterer when I gave the final count of 95! Family and friends flew in for the festivities that blessed Steve with life long memories. A few tears were shed as we featured a DVD created for Steve of his 40 years in the making. It began with the song “Beautiful boy” by John Lennon and also included songs such as “Butterfly kisses”, “We are family” and “Let’s get ready to rumble” to mention a few, concluding with the song “I am willing” by Steve’s favorite Christian song artist Jeremy Camp.

Secretly pulling off such a large event can be overwhelming. God knew in advance that I would need help and provided the perfect “staff” for me. Many friends flocked to my side in excitement with willing support. They all know how much I appreciate them and could not have pulled this off with out each and every one of them.

The last nine months have been busy and all consuming at times yet I enjoyed each moment of it. Spending many hours pulling pictures for the DVD reminded me of why I fell in love with Steve 13 years ago. He is a man with a special heart for God. He loves his family and seeks to become more like Christ each day.

As I dropped the last guest at the airport yesterday (my dear friend Bridget), I shed a few tears, wishing she would come back to live on the east coast. The week long partying was over. Wanting to sit and take it all in, I had to quickly gear up to pack three kids and myself for a week to scatter in different directions. They were going to various friends and my mom’s house, Steve and I packed for our trip to Italy.

So, here I am on the plane flying over the Atlantic praying it stays up in the air! All is well, just missing my kids. I’m looking forward to spending some much needed R & R time with my husband in a beautiful country with wonderful people, and amazing food!!

Blessings,

Debbie

Pass The Chips

2009-05-27T23:12:00.001-04:00

How do these super moms do it? They have multiple children running in different directions with after school activities, managing to get a decent meal on the table in between piano lessons, soccer, lacrosse and most of them even look good!

During the school year my kids do not leave the home other then attending a small church on Wednesday nights. That one night of the week often leaves me feeling like I’ve been run over by a truck. Now with the warmer weather here and summer sports and camps gearing up we’re off and running every night! As if my kids don’t provide enough afternoon running for me Steve asked me to join a softball league…I don’t play softball! Really, I don’t! Seriously, the coach doesn’t know where to put me so he assigns me the catcher position. Since I can’t throw the ball very far I roll the ball back to the pitcher, who does that?

I’ve been trying to keep up with getting homework done, keeping the kids interested in school (a big task), feeding them a balanced diet just like any good mom would do…until tonight. I gave up.. I didn’t care that I had no idea what to have for dinner! As I loaded the boys in the car to go pick up Emeline from swim practice Zachary said “I’m hungry mommy, can I please have something to eat?” I went to the pantry, pulled out a big bucket of potato chips, jumped in the car, grabbed a handful for myself and passed the bucket around instructing everyone to share! Was it my preference? No, but for tonight, for this week, it will have to do.

Blessings,

Debbie

Shut It Down!

2009-05-17T22:19:00.002-04:00

Injuries in our house occur frequently. Over eight years ago I had never stepped foot in a Children’s hospital nor did I know the location. Now, my car could make it to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on auto pilot I’m sure. Not only do we practically have our own orthopedic surgeon, I actually have the private line to the doctor’s nurse practitioner (Meg) who has become a sweet friend of mine. The parking attendants know us as well as the servers in McDonald’s. Often we hear, “Here comes the Summer family again!”

Boys and injuries are common yet don’t go well together. How on earth can you keep a six year old boy down? Zachary fell off his skateboard last fall and injured his ligaments. Damaged ligaments is never good news, a break is much better, it heals quicker. Sure enough after three weeks in a boot Zachary has continued to have problems with the ankle. Last week he could not put pressure on it due to a recent football injury.

“We need to shut it down,” was the doctor’s recommendation. Taking the ankle out of commission with a cast was the only hope to give it a rest. With a bright orange cast we left the hospital, activity was restricted.

As the mom, I’m not sure how to police this cast situation. I guess the responsible moms would make their child sit and do nothing, watch TV all day. We had one of the busiest weekends in a long time with lots of fun activities. The kids were signed up for a tennis tournament and Zachary begged me to play. I made him promise he would not run too much (yeah right mom!).

The efforts to “Shut it down” don’t seem to be working; Zachary has no problem running, jumping, and climbing with a cast on. It’s actually amazing to watch!

Sometimes I wish I could just shut down, go to sleep and rest for a few weeks. Life seems so busy no matter how hard I try to keep it at a manageable pace. I have multiple injuries yet I’m in the middle of USTA tennis, and to top it off I’m on a softball league..I don’t know how to play softball! Steve asked me to play with him, he doesn’t ask for much so I wanted to honor his request.

Although I would love to shut down physically, it is my spiritual being that will keep me going. My relationship with God and abiding in Him is all I really need. The physical aches and pains can be tolerated for now; my main concern is the health and well being of my spiritual relationship with Jesus. Some days it feels great, other days it feels like I’m falling apart. I am thankful for a sovereign God who loves and cares for me. He is faithful even when I’m not. When others see an inner strength in me, it is because in Him I live, move and have my being.

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

A Tribute To Mom

2009-05-09T22:29:00.001-04:00

When reading the Bible for my quiet time I tend to steer away from the Proverbs 31 woman, you know the gal who did it all? Some say the chapter is not referring to just one person, after all who on earth could accomplish all that and still have her children rise up and call her blessed! My children rise and are mad at me that I woke them up! Of course I have respect for the Proverbs 31 woman because she/they are in the Bible and I believe it is inspired by God. The older I get the more settled I become in who I am. I’m actually grateful to have even a few (maybe only one) of the qualities the P31 sister had!

My mom is an example of a woman who (in my humble opinion) comes pretty close. My dad “considers her worth far above rubies”, he always adored her, and trusted her. Years ago my dad had a temper that only my mom could diffuse. Mom is an amazing seamstress, she can sew anything from clothes, to wedding dresses, and draperies. As for me, I can hardly sew a button! She is a pillar of strength and confidence. Her faith in God is unwavering and steadfast. When she speaks only kind words come out of her mouth, complaining is not in her personality.

Sometimes I wonder why I can’t be more like my mom. How did I turn out so different then her? When I was a little girl I looked just like my dad, that’s what everyone said. Now that I’m getting older people say I look just like my mom. Maybe as I continue to age I’ll start to be more like my mom. There’s no one in this world I would choose to be more like. Tears come to my eyes when I think of my mom. So many friends I know have lost their mom and my heart breaks for them. Instead of fearing the loss of my mom someday, I embrace the times I have with her today. I thank God I have been blessed with the closest example of the P31 woman..the gal I call Mom.

I’m so glad God gave us to each other! Happy Mother’s Day mom, I love you!!

Debbie

Shopping With Steve

2009-05-05T22:35:00.001-04:00

Blocking the whole day off the calendar isn’t easy for any mom to do but weeks ago Steve and I decided to go shopping. Well, actually I begged Steve to go with me and he said “yes!” I had certificates to a very exclusive women’s store and I honestly felt ridiculous going! I never bought clothes from the store before and I didn’t particularly care for their style but assured myself I would find something.

Having a degree in Textile Technology with a minor in Apparel I definitely like the finer things when it comes to clothes and fabric but I have never been a full price retail shopper. My favorite stores have always been TJ Maxx and Marshall’s. That doesn’t mean you’ll never see me in Ann Taylor or Nordstrom, but only at the “sale” racks.

Today was no different. Even with certificates I still went for the clearance racks which were still quite expensive for my pocket book. Having my husband there felt awkward at first but then it was a fun experience. It reminded me how much fun Steve and I have together when it’s just us, nobody pulling at us or schedules to keep. We’re both calm.

I appreciated my husband taking time to spend with me. I know that is the reason he agreed to come with me, not because he likes to go clothes shopping, in fact it is probably one of the least favorite things for him to do. Yet, he took the whole day from work to be with me. He’s usually a fixer (likes to fix me) and he didn’t try to do that once today!

Our time is the most valuable gift we can give anyone. I constantly struggle with time management, often feeling guilty I am failing miserably. There are so many I care about in my life I can’t find enough hours to show them. So what do I do? I have to prioritize my family first and then everyone else, period.

Today Steve was a selfless example of just that 

Blessings,

Debbie

I Can't Keep Up!

2009-04-28T22:39:00.006-04:00

Call it adult ADD, spring fever, senior moments, or just Too Much On My Plate, I can’t keep up! I’m the mom, I’m supposed to be holding it all together and I feel like I’m falling apart these last few weeks.

Once a teacher told me after spring break they "loose" the kids, they don’t want to work anymore! Any serious academic work must be complete before then. To top it off we have had mid summer weather which just fuels the outside activity over the top! Yesterday the kids came home and ran outside before I could catch them to do the normal homework and chores. Before I knew it they were in the stream catching critters, the hose was going, and newly caught bull frogs were jumping out of buckets!

During the school year my kids do not participate in any after school sports, only on the weekends. With the warmer weather here I stepped up the activities to include tennis then swim team, and flag football on the weekends. As it turns out Emeline has been asked to scrimmage with a travel soccer team (those gals can play soccer!), and Sam was asked to run for a track and field club. Fun right? Of course, but I’m only one person and can’t get everyone to where they need to go! Thank goodness for girlfriends and carpooling.

Normally, I’m an organized person managing to keep track of the schedule. So much is going on this last week I’m in a panic on a daily basis wondering if I forgot to take someone somewhere, or pick them up! Today I called school frantic asking them to pull Sam off the bus, he was supposed to be in carpool for a pick up to go to the T & F club, YIKES! Yesterday I was running late to meet the bus and the driver had to call me to find out my location, thankfully I was right down the street. That never looks good for a mom.

Tonight I took Emeline to Girl Scouts only to find out it was cancelled and I never got the message (ugh!). Liking the thought of going home, doing the dishes, getting some laundry done, and getting everyone and myself to bed early, what did we do? We threw caution to the wind and went to a local carnival, bought tickets for rides and had a blast!!

I’m as guilty as the kids wanting to go have fun, seizing the moment, gosh, they grow up so fast!! Dishes and laundry can wait for sure!

Blessings,

Debbie

"Have A Great Time In Heaven!"

2009-04-20T23:51:00.003-04:00

Steve and I have been blessed to have both sets of our parents alive until today. Steve’s dad went home to be with Jesus at 6:24 PM EST. He was 84 years young and survived four strokes. This was Steve’s fourth trip to say “good-bye”. Every other time Steve made the trip to Missouri dad would rally, so happy Steve was there and he would recover! This time was different, we learned a few days ago he refused to eat or drink. Not knowing if Steve would make it all the way out to Branson again we all got on the phone Saturday night and said our “good-byes”. Dad couldn’t talk but a phone was held to his ear and we knew he could hear us. Everyone told him how much we loved him. Zachary told grandpa “Have a great time in heaven and we’ll see you again some day!”

Steve left this morning with Emeline and Samuel to make the trip west. Sam had prayed for months that he would have the opportunity to see grandpa one more time before he passed away, and Steve prayed that he would be there when the time came for dad to leave this world. I prayed that also for Steve but had doubts that it would all happen at just the right time, after all, Branson Missouri is not around the corner and there are no nonstop flights to the place!

I’m not a big morning person and was secretly hoping they would not wake me up at 5:30 am before they left, but of course I couldn’t tell them that. Sure enough they all marched in this morning ready to go, wanting another kiss and hug from mom! At 7:00 am I got the call they had missed their flight. I can’t help but say I was chuckling all day to imagine the three of them traveling together!

As it turns out God had a bigger plan then anyone! When Steve and the kids missed the first flight (because they were eating at the food court) they were re-routed from connecting through Denver to connecting through Chicago. When they arrived in Chicago Steve noticed there was a flight that would get them to Branson earlier then the original scheduled flight. They flew standby and successfully made the flight. Once in the nursing home and greeting dad it was 24 minutes before he passed on. Had they made their original flight out of Philadelphia, they would have missed seeing dad alive. How awesome is that? It was as if he waited until his only son arrived and then decided it was time to go…

Now the grieving process begins. Unfortunately so many of us have lost loved ones and are in different phases of the grieving process. I once heard someone say “The best way to get through grieving is to grieve.” As a mom we not only grieve for ourselves, but we grieve for our children, the loss they will feel.

Today was a day I wondered what people do when they don’t have God in their life. I recently spoke to someone who told me they believe they have a soul that goes somewhere when they die but they’re not sure where. How very sad, my heart hurts for that person. As Dr. Ken left this world today he knew where he was going and so did his family. It was and is very sad, but what a blessed experience to stand around a loved one, holding hands, praying, singing, tenderly ushering him into God’s throne of grace where he will spend eternity. Tonight is dad’s first night in heaven. We are sad he is not longer with us but know he is in a much better place.

We thank all our friends and family for their love and prayers.

Blessings,

Debbie

Distractions

2009-04-19T23:26:00.001-04:00

Talk about distractions, the other day I was enjoying my quiet time after the kids got on the bus. Getting three busy, loud children out the door by 7:30 with a full belly is quite a task. After they board the bus, and I throw kisses, there are days I want to collapse. Sitting down with a cup of coffee, having a devotional time with God is soothing to my soul.

Recently our front door broke, a part on the door snapped and Steve had to send away for a new one. Certainly Steve and many would wonder what the big deal is not having a front door? “What about the garage door?” some would ask. Good question, that is broke too! My only way in right now is the back door.

A few days ago I sat in my pajamas having my coffee, right after the kids left looking forward to my quiet time. I soon heard the dog start to throw up. I quickly jumped out of my seat to get him out of the house. Before I got to him he threw up on the kitchen floor and his bed. I hoped to get to the cover off the bed fast enough that it didn’t penetrate to the padding. No such luck, the padding had throw up all over it too (ugh!). Slightly annoyed that I now had all this cleaning to do, and did I mention that I do not tolerate throw up very well? I got everything to the laundry room and realized that when the padding needed to be dried I would need some tennis balls to throw in the dryer, you know, to fluff it up! Realizing that I did not have tennis balls in the laundry room I went to the closet where I keep my tennis racquet to get the balls. Then I realized that I forgot my tennis racquet in the car and that is not good for the strings! I marched right out to my car to get the tennis racquet and locked the door behind me. So, there was the dog and I outside my house (me in my red pajamas!) All from the dog throwing up!

My world is made up of distractions. It can be annoying if I choose or I can accept the distractions and let God teach me through each and every one of them. Having three children, sometimes I wonder how on earth anything gets done. Forget about trying to keep a steady train of thought when they’re home! Talking on the phone or trying to write a serious e-mail is suicidal!

I’m learning to embrace the distractions. I use to think I was entitled to my space and time and I still am within reason yet the distractions are what makes me grow, helps me to see things differently. I look at them more now as opportunities then annoyances.

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

Where Did He Go?

2009-04-12T21:45:00.001-04:00

Us moms never get use to loosing a child. For all the times I have lost someone whether it be in a toy store where they had to lock the store down, at the Jersey shore where lifeguards, the fire department, and police were all on the look out or in a busy airport with people rushing to their destinations, it’s a terrifying experience. You can’t help but think the worst! Where are they? Has someone taken them? Will I see them again?

Today as we celebrated Easter, a risen Savior, I thought all day about what it must have been like for the two Marys to experience the empty tomb and then an angel of the Lord telling them He is not here He is risen. What on earth went through their heads? Confusion and terror I’m sure. They were most likely wanting to just visit the tomb where Jesus was buried, still numb from what happened three days ago and now this?

Driving to church today we passed a large cemetery buzzing with family members paying their respects, some with flowers, some carried beach chairs to stay for a longer visit. I wondered what would happen if one of their deceased loved ones was gone, out of the grave, what a shock that would be.

Jesus was gone, missing, and who could believe all that was unfolding so quickly for the Marys? We now know and understand all of what happened. God sent His son to die on the cross and after three days He would rise, and RISE He did!! He paved the way for us to spend eternity with God and not be judged for our sins. Jesus took our sins, all of them to the cross and paid for them. Our only job is to accept that gift (John 3:16)

There are not too many stories of loosing a loved one, and it having a happy ending. This story not only has a happy ending, it was the beginning of freedom through Jesus Christ.

While in Israel sixteen years ago I had the privilege of visiting the empty tomb…an amazing experience for sure.

“He is not here; for He is risen, as He said….” Matthew 28:6

Happy Easter to all!

Blessings,

Debbie

Parablelooza

2009-04-05T20:38:00.002-04:00

As I sat watching “Parablelooza” this morning, I couldn’t help but make it a point to observe almost each and every child up there. We went to see Emeline perform but she was in the back and it was impossible to see her. Attending two long performances left some room to observe for sure!

Parablelooza is a children’s musical centered around a game show called P A R A B L E L O O Z A, yet with a bigger story about the parables in the Bible.

I love to watch kids. Years ago I often felt inadequate and unsure of motherhood, but through understanding God’s grace in my life I have a lighter heart. Like every other family we have our ups and downs. Times when our kids are lovely, and times when they’re awful. Times when I feel in control with them and times when I have no clue what to do other then pray (which I do often!). Just last week one of my sons was taken to lunch by the principle for receiving so many rewards. Two days later he was in the principle's office for putting up his middle finger in the lunch room (ugh!).

Before I had children I was critical of other mothers. Surely a mother should be able to control her screaming kids in the super market…then I had kids who screamed in the super market and many other places!! Motherhood is one of the most humbling jobs I can imagine yet the most rewarding job of all.

Observing almost seventy children this morning included laughing at some, praying for others, hoping my daughter turns out like one, and most of all realizing that God made them all so wonderful and vastly different. Some with short hair, some long, some fashionable, some (like Emeline) seem to not care at all about how they appear. Some obviously had a stage presence and confidence about them, others looked like it was a big deal for them to be up on stage.

I also spent some time thinking and praying for the parents of all these kids. Only the Lord knows what types of homes they come from. Ours certainly is not perfect, but one thing is for sure.. we love our kids, we pray for them and with them. My everyday prayer is that my kids will see a need for Jesus in their lives and that they will see that we, their parents rely on and need Jesus every step of the way. If they can grasp that I’ll be thankful, and they’ll be fine.

“I will praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy works, and that my soul knows well.” Psalm 139:14

Parenting: Hang in, Hold on, Hug tight!

Blessings,

Debbie

The New Norm

2009-03-30T10:50:00.001-04:00

Growing up with a father who was a musician, he expected me to be one too. Sports was not an option. I was quite good at playing the clarinet but I hated to practice. I had the gift of sight reading, and so I went far in competitions with out practicing!

As an adult I must be making up for loss time. I love to watch football, soccer, basketball, and lacrosse but my favorite game to play is tennis. After becoming a mom I realized I needed something to serve as an outlet. I tried a mom’s group which included making crafts and quickly realized this was not for me! Nine years later I still love that little yellow ball. It’s my best therapy for stress relief!

Last June I was injured on the court with ligament damage in my foot. My doctor limited my activity but allowed me to play tennis once a week. I also pulled my IT band and groin! As if that wasn’t enough I have now been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my hands. I went through a week of feeling sorry for myself. How can I function without the use of my hands or being in pain with swelling all the time? How will I write?? Play tennis? Do the dishes, clean the house??

I now have a choice how to live my life. At first I was sure the doctor would tell me to stop doing my activities. No more spin class, NO MORE TENNIS!! That was not what the doctor said at all, in fact he said “DO NOT STOP PLAYING TENNIS!” I knew I liked that guy!! Yes, even with arthritis continual activity is good!

My new norm is not fun, I wish I didn’t have pain, but I do. Now I get to choose how I will live with this. I can complain most days or I can learn how to manage my pain. Only through prayer will I become an o.k. new me. It certainly could be worse. I choose to trust that God will give me the strength when I need it and the wisdom to know when to rest my hands.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Blessings,

Debbie

The Unknown

2009-03-24T09:46:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I pulled into my driveway and a sheriff was waiting for me. All I could think of was Steve was dead. This officer who I never met before was here to tell me “I’m sorry Mrs. Summer, but there has been an accident, and your husband did not make it.” Anyone who has experienced this knows all of what rushes thorough your head in the few seconds from the time you connect with the scene until you find out what is really going on. The 30 seconds that passed between me seeing the car and pulling up behind him to find out why he was in my driveway aged me at least fifteen years. Although I remembered talking to Steve only an hour before, how could he have died so quickly? It was all I could think about. The unknown was horrible. Turns out the sheriff was there to serve Steve’s company papers, he was being sued. Nobody wants to be sued either but I was grateful for this being the reason. Steve’s company had moved within the last few years and the claim was prior to that so the county only had Steve’s home address to serve the papers. I was relieved! It reminded me of how often circumstances can change our lives forever.

I have a neighbor fighting for her life with cancer treatments. It takes my breath away when I think of all she is going through. I pray for her everyday many times. When I asked her husband what has been the most difficult part of this journey he answered “When we knew something was wrong but we didn’t know what it was.”

Today I have something wrong and I don’t know what it is. Last week my hands started to hurt me. I now have constant pain and have a difficult time doing things that were effortless my whole life. Doing laundry, cleaning, making dinner, writing blogs, playing tennis, twisting a bottle cap, etc. all cause pain. When I try to rest them I have pins and needles. As I sat in the doctor’s office yesterday I was hoping he would tell me I have carpal tunnel and with some treatment would get better. He did not tell me that. What he did tell me is he thinks it is most likely arthritis. Blood tests and x-rays will conclude the results within the next few days.

The unknown in life is scary. The internet can be a wonderful thing yet a curse! Googling my symptoms doesn’t make me feel any better. I think of how much worse this could be, but IT’S MY HANDS!! Will they start to become deformed? I have three young children that need a mother with full use of her hands!! God knows all this right?? Yes He does, I know He does.

In a devotional today I read how God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow (Hebrews 13:8). Sometimes that is all we have to hang onto. Often we don’t know what the future holds but we know who holds the future. I believe that, He knows what I can handle and what I need. He has plans to give me a future and a hope. I will choose to trust that promise.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

Blessings,

Debbie

A Gas Of A Party!

2009-03-15T18:16:00.004-04:00

Steve and I have wanted to get to know our kid’s friends parents better. Attending a private school spreads these kids all over the greater Philadelphia area for many miles. One of Emeline’s best friends lives forty five minutes away. Recently Zachary wanted a play date and I said “Ask Johnny if he can just sleep over.” There is no such thing as a two hour play date for our kids.

Attending fun, memorable chili cook-offs for several years at my girlfriend Bridget’s house (who moved away), has left me feeling like I needed to pick up the torch at some point and run with it. Wanting to get some familiar and unfamiliar faces mingling and a chili cook-off seemed like a very good fit.

With three "cook-off" hostess coaches, two on the west coast (one being Bridget), and one on the east coast, plus numerous class lists I mailed the invitations. My mistake was I didn’t make a master list of who I invited! Although many RSVP’d, some did not. I had no idea how many guests I was really having!! When most asked I would give a ballpark number, acting like everything was under control. Only close friends knew I was clueless!!

With seventeen chilis strong things turned out just fine, the night was a success. Steve and I were thrilled so many showed up, crock pots in tow with a competitive look in their eye! The entries were judged for the spiciest, most unusual, and best overall taste. Prizes were awarded accordingly.

With the busy day we had getting ready for the party, my only prayer was that everyone would feel welcome in our home and enjoy their time, catching up with existing friendships and meeting some new people. As I looked around our many rooms filled with chatting guests and laughter, it was apparent my prayers were answered.

Thank you Bari Jo, Nancy, and Bridget!

A special thanks to my friend Ericka who encouraged me to take this step offering to be of help and help she did (Ken too!). Thanks to her little nudge, Lord willing, we will have a second Summer Annual Chili Cook-Off next March 2010!!

Blessings,

Debbie

A weekend with Mrs. "T"

2009-03-08T18:49:00.004-04:00

Going to a Women’s Retreat is not typically someting I'm dying to do. Honestly if I was given a chance to go spend a weekend with a girlfriend or go to a retreat with a large group I would choose the one on one fellowship. Don’t get me wrong, I think retreats are great but I often come home from them exhausted.

It’s been six years since I have attended a retreat. My girlfriend Laurie invited me to go with her church. With money being tight and not loving retreats I was hesitant and said no. My good friend pushed a bit until I said yes. The only reason I wanted to go was to spend time with her and another friend.

As the time came close for us to leave last Friday I could have been easily talked out of going away. Besides having three young children I have many balls I am juggling, and I was feeling overwhelmed to walk away from it all for two days. Out of devotion to my friend I gladly went.

Laurie and I met playing tennis nine years ago. Upon the birth of my second child Sam, at two weeks old he contracted the RSV virus that made him critically sick. Laurie reached out to me and it was then we realized we both have a love for Jesus. Over the last eight years Laurie has become a dear friend. I am privileged to have her in my life sharing the ups and downs of our journey. I have watched her be a mom of three amazing boys. Many times God has used her to encourage my heart and help me laugh at my crazy boys!! She is a wise woman (and really smart too!) who I can sit and listen to for hours. She knows I’m one of her biggest fans! Laurie shines with a steadfast, real, unwavering faith in her God.

The retreat was a blessing. The singing, speaking, testimonies, line dances, and skits, all made up the spiritual nourishment I needed. As for my time with Laurie, as usual the time was sweet. She does most of the talking and I listen (I prefer that). She doesn’t realize how much I learn from her each time we are together. God has spoken to me often through my friend Laurie. My life is richer for knowing her

“Iron sharpens iron: so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend”. Proverbs 27:17.

Thank you for being my friend Mrs. “T”, and for sharing the weekend with me!

Blessings,

Debbie

Utterly Chaotic Yet Fun Snow Day!

2009-03-03T10:18:00.001-05:00

An unexpected snow day in March!! Three days ago we learned a “Nor’easter” was coming up the coast promising heavy snow!

Having the kids home for a snow day use to be quiet and confining. Not anymore, the phone calls started immediately orchestrating snow dates. By the time I listened to my voicemail we had already missed one sledding date!

My morning was consumed with trying to navigate my parents safely home from Atlanta, as well as manage lots of kids! Mom and Dad had been stuck for two days trying to get home from a cruise. With a series of mis-haps, it started to seem like they would never come home!! They were bumped off numerous flights and others were cancelled. With yet another delay yesterday afternoon I called the airline and told them I have two elderly parents (I didn’t mention how in shape and “young” my mother was for 73) who both take medication that they no longer have who need to come home. I stressed they could no longer be put on stand by, they needed to be on the next flight out. Meanwhile my mother was told they were # 37 on stand by for a full flight. “Sure, no problem, I can get them both on the flight.” REALLY? I couldn’t believe my ears, someone actually willing to help and had the authority to override the system! Praise God, they ran to gate C-3 who quickly redirected them to gate C-24 and up up and away they went!

As any mom can imagine, my time on the phone did not go smoothly having all the kids home. At one point I had two people on two separate phone lines while Sam came in screaming, the dog knocked my neighbor down and “she’s really hurt”! As I have the two ladies (my mom and airline rep) on the phone I was screaming at the top of my lungs for the dog to get off the neighbor and come inside (the dog never listens to me)! Then shortly after that (while I’m still on the phone) another child came in screaming the dog ate his snow goggles! This went on and on!

Finally as my parents were in the air on their way home Steve walked in! Owning a Snow Management company means we NEVER see Steve if it is snowing, in fact we don’t see him days before or after a storm.

Although the kids had already been out numerous times sledding, snow-blowing the drive (I wish I had a picture of the job they did), having snow ball fights, and building snow men we all decided to go sledding. We headed out to our favorite very large sledding hill. It was so much fun to see the hundreds of kids and parents having a ball. What is it about snow, a sled, and a hill? It brings out the kid in all of us. Steve and I went down the hill so fast I thought we would kill ourselves and others!

After our fun day was over, we said good-bye to Steve, went to McDonald’s for take out, and headed down to the airport to meet my parents. Although they had their own car I wanted to escort them safely home. Trying to make life easier for them we picked up their dog on the way to the airport who proceeded to throw up all over my car! UGH!! As I tried to clean it, the temperature was so cold the throw up was freezing faster then I could clean it up! YUCK!!!

We returned home very late last night, but what a day we had. Sledding was the best, and even better with our special visitor for the event, STEVE!!!

Today, after all homework and chores are done we plan to have at that sledding hill again!!

Blessings,

Debbie

God's Presence

2009-02-25T22:24:00.005-05:00

Yesterday we had our “much needed” carpets cleaned. When Dan arrived and asked me my expectations, I replied “Anything you do will be an improvement!" Unfortunately, he arrived a little late and then underestimated just how long it would take to clean all the carpets. I had to leave him alone in my house to go pick up my kids and take them to a doctor’s appointment. While on the way to school I heard a noise in my car two separate times. The second time I called my husband who told me to take the car right over to Dave, our auto mechanic. My schedule did not allow time to take the car to the shop especially since I left Dan the carpet cleaner alone in my house and needed to hurry home after the pick up and doctor’s visit. After all it wasn’t the first time I ever heard a noise in the 150,000 mile Suburban I have been driving for the last six years! Besides, don’t most women kick into denial mode when it comes to their cars and malfunctions??

We made it home fine, said good-bye and thank you to Dan the carpet cleaner and headed out to Girl Scouts. Steve decided to work late so it was the kids and me. As I was driving to Girl Scouts the “check engine oil” light went on. Uh Oh…another call to Steve. I was reminded how I should have taken the car to Dave the mechanic! We agreed I should check the oil when I arrived at Girl Scouts. Now I didn’t want to tell my husband but I had no idea where the oil stick was. I had never checked the oil in my car! It took three of us moms to find the oil stick and determine there was absolutely no oil in the car at all! My next call to Steve was not an easy one. I once again heard how I should have taken the car to Dave the mechanic and how the car could be ruined or maybe cost $10,000!!!

Meanwhile I have boys in the back who are hungry. “When are we going to eat, and what are we going to eat?” I explained that mommy is in a crisis, the car could be very sick and they need to just be quiet for now!!!

I immediately went to the store, bought oil and attempted to put oil in my car while in the Walgreen’s parking lot. Tim and Linda (I think they were angels) came along to help me when they saw me under my hood struggling to get the oil cap off.

As I drove home approaching my house the car made such a terrible noise I was sure it was dying a sudden death. Again, the call to Steve telling him what happened. We determined the car was not drivable and he should come home to pick up Emeline at Girl Scouts and personally get the car to the shop.

Due to the carpets being cleaned my house was in disarray, furniture on top of furniture and out in the hallways. The kitchen was a mess, lunches needed to be made and I had a group of women coming for Bible study at my house in the morning. Standing at the kitchen sink I cried out to God, asking Him for miraculous energy, telling him how overwhelmed I was, bringing to His attention what needed to be done, and praying I would not loose my patience with the boys, who still were not fed!

It was amazing to sense the presence of the Lord. It was as if he just took over! I immediately had a sense of peace, I e-mailed the study girlfriends to ask them to pray, and miraculously I cleaned the house, dinner was made, and all the other tasks complete with time and energy to finish studying for today. God’s presence was so real, as He revealed Himself to me in such a special way.

Praise God the car seems o.k. for now. It never made the noise I heard several times yesterday when Dave the mechanic got a hold of it, OF COURSE!! That's the way it goes!!

"And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be delivered...." Joel 2:32

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

New Mercies

2009-02-18T22:12:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was a rough day with the kids. It started out fine yet by mid afternoon we were spiraling down rather quickly. Once the kids came home from school it was utterly chaotic getting homework done, reviewing and absorbing three report cards, refereeing sibling rivalry fights, studying for a Science test that makes no sense to my seven year old (or me!), delivering girl scout cookies, making dinner, looking forward to my husband coming home to help me only to realize he forgot to tell me he wasn’t coming home! I wanted to call Nanny 911! By 6:30 PM I was quick tempered and intolerant.

My children started throwing comments at me I use on them like “Are you getting enough sleep?” “How are you with God?” “Could you be nicer?” “Let’s pray.” “Do you have a heart issue?” These comments were not making me feel any better at the time in fact they were making me feel horrible. I knew they were right to all the above!!

I apologized to them and prayed with them at bedtime explaining to them I’m a sinner just like them and I need Jesus too! Still, I felt horrible…I replayed the afternoon and all the ways I could have done or said something different. I also knew that I DID need a good nights sleep so I made that a priority, jumped in bed and read my Bible, a chapter in Proverbs. I knew to stay away from the Proverbs 31 woman chapter, she would make me feel worse!! My children were certainlly not rising up and calling me blessed!

Today, when the alarm went off and I opened my eyes the Lord whispered in my ear “My mercies are new every morning….” I looked outside and could see the sun rising, it was beautiful. I had an overwhelming sense of peace and thankfulness in my heart to have a God who loves me even when I fail, and extends mercy and grace in abundance.

Today was a much better day. My children commented and thanked me for being nicer. I told them it was God who helped me and always helps me! No Nanny 911 for me today!

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not, they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

Happy V-Day!

2009-02-15T22:40:00.001-05:00

Valentine’s Day is a time to reflect on all the special people in our lives.

I love and appreciate my parents. They have taught me so much about life. The good, the bad, and the ugly, my life has been molded and shaped by their example. They are my dearest and best friends. My mom especially has taught me unconditional love for which I am eternally grateful.

The word “Humility” comes to mind when I think of those special girlfriends in my life. I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling so blessed to have a core group of women who know me so well, have for years, and love me just the way I am. They encourage me in the Lord without judging me. Days, weeks, months can go by without talking to some of them yet when we re-connect, the bond of friendship grows stronger!

Having children introduced a whole new meaning of the word “Love” to my vocabulary. I heard of this love but until you experience it you can’t understand it. To experience this Maternal Love three times has been the greatest joy of my life. Babies are miracles and I am amazed that God saw fit to allow me the honor of loving and caring for Emeline, Samuel, and Zachary. Every day my love grows deeper. There is no limit….it just keeps coming! When they hurt, I hurt. When they laugh, I laugh. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for them and they know it. They know their momma is absolutely crazy about each one of them!!

On Valentine’s Day of course we should acknowledge all those we love, but the day is really for that “Special Person”. You know the one we want to snuggle with, hold their hand, the one we want to romance and who we want to romance us!

Steve and I have always celebrated Valentines’ Day by going out to a special restaurant, flowers, maybe a movie, and dot…dot…dot..!

Yesterday was different. After three basketball games and cleaning our house we were pooped. We forgot to think about going out and when we did it was too late. Instead of us being alone we added a child to the mix (four total)! There were lots of chocolates, cards, and flowers to enjoy.

After the kids went to bed Steve and I were scheduled to have an in-house date night, just us two. We lit candles and turned on an adult (not Disney) movie. Within the first five minutes of the movie Steve started to snore! I can’t blame him, we were watching a chick flick (Momma Mia) which is painful for him to watch.

As much as we try, these days are difficult to try and keep the romance alive. Somehow I know we are not alone. Will we keep trying? Sure…but we’re also well aware that there are times in life when you just need to keep on keeping on. We’re in that phase right now. I know we’ll eventually get back to where we need to be…as for now, we’ll settle for whatever special time we can get, even if it’s just five minutes before Steve falls asleep and starts snoring!!

The Bible talks so much about love. There are so many verses in the Bible encouraging us to love one another. My favorite is:

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

May we know the depth and width of Christ’s love in our lives!

Blessings,

Debbie

A Dream Home?

2009-02-07T23:17:00.004-05:00

Sometimes I hear women speak of their Dream Home. A few already live in their Dream Home, others wish they did. This concept doesn’t feel right for me, I live in a home that is more then just fine, and it’s lovely. Eight years ago we bought our house, practically stole the house for under market value. My husband and his crew gutted the house transforming the insides miraculously!

Five years ago we had an extravagant landscape project done that was the talk of the neighborhood. It was magnificent! Whenever I drove up to the house I stood in awe of the beautiful flowers, trees, and shrubbery.

Eight years later the house looks very different. Three active children, a dog, bunny, and bird have all contributed to the toll taken on the inside of the house. The once white carpets are grey and dirty. The once beautiful hardwood floor needs to be resurfaced. The family room furniture is shot. I have holes in the walls and ceilings from various mishaps.

The outside of the house has also changed. The once beautiful landscape is almost completely gone. So much has died off. The side of the house is turning green needing a good power washing. I often want to call my neighbor and apologize they have to look at it everyday!

Of course like any women I’m more critical of my own house then most would be. Many would not notice the things I do. I try to be patient knowing we cannot afford to do much financially at this point so I do the best I can keeping it looking as nice as possible. If I dream at all it is about how nice the house will look when things can be taken care of, not a new and bigger house!

Today I pounded the pavement with Emeline selling Girl Scout cookies. This was our second attempt. Yesterday I drove the neighborhood as she walked. Today Emeline wanted me to walk with her so I did. I kept a low profile as my nine year old daughter went house-to-house and introduced herself asking if the owner would like to buy cookies. I was enjoying the beautiful day and the walk with my daughter. I was thankful most people were kind to Emeline whether they bought cookies or not.

As we walked further away from our home I did not know the people. Emeline walked up to a house, and a woman answered the door. I couldn’t hear what they were saying but the two were engaged in a conversation. After the woman purchased cookies from Emeline she turned to me and started shouting a story. I had never seen this woman before but she somehow knew where we lived and our last name. This distant neighbor was excited to meet the people who lived down the street on the corner. She told me a story another friend of her’s told her. This friend of hers told her whenever the family drives by our house her kids call our home “The Dream Home”. When the mom asked them why they said, “Because they have a great dog, they put a big sheet up in the summer time for outside movies, they have a zip line, the mom and dad are really nice, the kids are out laughing and having a good time, and they just look like a family that has so much fun together! We want to live in a house like that!” As this woman was speaking the tears started rolling down my face. I was glad I had sunglasses on so she couldn’t see me. I thanked her for sharing that story with me. I was a little shocked and embarrassed, and didn’t have much to say.

As I walked away the tears did not stop. Emeline was ahead of me onto her next sale. I took a deep breath, looked up in the beautiful blue sunny sky and thanked the Lord for blessing me and reminding me what life is all about. Our house stood out not for the work that needed to be done but for the crazy people in it!

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

Train Up A Child

2009-02-05T22:58:00.003-05:00

Having three children means three birthdays to celebrate. Two summer birthdays and one winter birthday. Summertime is fun and it doesn’t take much to get a group together whether it be at the pool, beach, park, or in your back yard, it’s bound to be fun. Over the last few years I keep telling my children “No more big birthday parties!” Yet as each special date rolls around I find myself planning a party.

Sam’s birthday is the winter date. February is a cold month in the Northeast yet a fun time to get out and do something different! Yesterday we went on a journey with thirteen kids to celebrate Sam's eighth birthday. Our first stop was to play games at a Sports Zone, then onto a Lego Store where the guests built their own Lego project.

Spending six hours with all boys and one sweet girl delighted my heart. Sure, they had their moments but what impressed me about this group was the diverse personalities and how they behaved when their parents were not there. I loved hearing about their favorite authors, subjects, sports, and then more sports! I watched them make good choices and encourage one another. I noticed some giving tickets to others they had won playing video games. Prizes were shared without me saying a word. When a large group of them broke away running from the adults at the mall, there were the ones encouraging them to come back and stay with the adults. Of course me screaming at the top of my lungs got their attention as well!

They all spoke their mind in a respectful way. One boy wanted to speak to the manager of the Lego Store to tell him what a great job our party person “Tripp” was doing. So thoughtful!

Eating pizza and cake was the last stop and event of the evening. Only after their bellies were full and numerous cups of sprite and lemonade were consumed did many (including my Sam) start “bouncing off the walls”. Let’s just say the restaurant was happy to see us leave!

Most everyone would think we were crazy for taking this journey. We could have had a skating party for an hour and be done with it. The kids had a blast and would have also had a good time skating. The blessing was all mine. We threw a party but got so much in return. Our hearts were blessed by each and every friend of Sam’s last night. They all represented Christ in many ways, and their parents should be proud of them.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Of course I forgot my camera. My friend Denise took pictures with her phone but she doesn’t know how to down load them on her computer. I won’t hold my breath waiting for them. They’ll be a pleasant surprise if they come.

Blessings,

Debbie

Sledding, A Barbecue, and Hot Chocolate

2009-02-03T21:56:00.002-05:00

Today was a day like none other. The snow blanketed the grass and adorned the trees. It was like a picture you would see on a Hallmark card. Because the temperatures in Philadelphia yesterday sky rocketed to almost 60 degrees, the ground was too warm for the snow to stick on the roads yet we were gaining inches on the grass. All day it snowed and everyone could go about their business, enjoying the beautiful white scenery.

After the kids did homework, studied for tests, practiced instruments, and did their chores we headed out to go sledding to our favorite “snow” hill. Not really having the time to do this, SOMETIMES one just needs to throw caution to the wind and DO IT! As expected, once we arrived at our favorite spot the conditions for sledding and snow boarding were perfect. We sledded and had snow ball fights until almost bedtime. Sure, I could have brought them home earlier like a good responsible mom but you never know when the last snow of the season will be. Tonight could be the last!! We had to seize the moment!

With three freezing cold hungry and wet children, after 2 hours of fun we headed home to have a barbecue. There’s something about scraping off snow on a grill that doesn’t seem quite right, but it was all part of the adventure of the day! The steak tasted better then usual for our hungry appetites.

As for dessert? Of course hot chocolate with lots of whipped cream!

So often in life it is easy to get weighed down by the cares of whatever it is staring at us in the face, and we ALL have something staring at us in the face!

“….I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

God desires to lift us above our circumstances and enjoy all that He has for us. I appreciate Him showing me a day like today. Having the eyes to see only what is beautiful (snow everywhere!), going on a sledding adventure with my kids, having our favorite barbecue dinner, and topping it off with a big mug of extra chocolaty hot chocolate!

We’ll all sleep well tonight!

Blessings,

Debbie

A Pathetic Bumble Bee

2009-01-28T23:39:00.005-05:00

Returning on Monday from one of my favorite trips of the year, I was rejuvenated physically, mentally, and spiritually. Five days with the girls in sunny (well mostly) California left me feeling like I could take on the world! All the laughing worked wonders for my soul. With my return came the need for Steve to leave us and go to work without coming home for a few days.

Sam had been home sick on Monday and it was apparent he would need to stay home from school the next day. Sure enough he was very sick the next day requiring a trip to the doc’s for an antibiotic. As I arrived home Emeline was feeling sick and had a fever. No problem, I was still feeling very positive. By last night not only was Emeline and Sam sick, but I looked at Zachary and his cheeks were fiery red. Turns out Zachary spiked a high fever!

With three kids so close in age they are all competitive and constantly jockeying for position in the family. There were comments and arguments amongst them who was the sickest! Everyone wanted their temperature taken to see who was going to win that prize. I quickly found myself kick into nurse mode. Getting drinks, dispensing Motrin, changing TV channels, plumping pillows, giving hugs, praying for healing, etc. At one point Emeline thought she might throw up. She can have a difficult time targeting the bowl, so I told her I would pay her five dollars if she could just keep her throw up in the bowl.

When Zachary’s fever and chest pain (when he coughed) continued to worsen I called Steve and he came home. Eventually we got everyone to sleep. As Steve was getting ready to go back to work we realized there was a flood in the basement. Once that was cleaned up and after midnight Steve went back to work. Before he left I asked him to set the house alarm. It had started snowing quite hard. At 1:30 AM I was awakened by the alarm in the house. At first I thought it was Steve or the dog or one of the kids. When I realized it seemed like a real alarm I called 911. Thank goodness in the end it was not a real emergency because the police took twenty minutes to arrive at my house. What were they doing? Steve came home for the second time to be sure everything was o.k. in the house. We decided it must have been a fault in the system. I think I aged fifteen years in that twenty minutes waiting for the police with three children sleeping not knowing if we had an unwanted guest in the house. When the police arrived I was standing out on my porch in my pajamas in a snow storm to greet them.

My morning kicked off early with taking two more children to see the doctor. Having all three home all day kept me running. Of all the challenges and scary events that have taken place, the situation that almost put me over the edge was when Zachary asked me to put together a bumble bee he received in his kid's meal from Chick Fil-A. It was all my son asked of me today. When I looked at the directions they looked Greek. I couldn’t believe a fast food restaurant would give something like that out. One obviously needed an Engineering degree to put the thing together. After a few attempts to tell Zachary I really couldn’t do it and seeing the disappointment on his sick little face I decided to just design the bumble bee on my own without the directions. As a mom I wear many hats but Engineer Mom is not one of them! I got the tape and started taping it together. It was pathetic. When I was done it looked like a disfigured, handicapped bumble bee. I showed my masterpiece to Zachary (fighting back giggles) and said “Ta Dah!” He said “Is that what it’s supposed to look like?” I said “YES!” Thankfully he is only six and believed me. He replied “Wow!”

They are all resting, hopefully on the upswing to better health.

With the utter chaos of the last 48 hours, it’s been a little crazy and all consuming but I have honestly loved having them all home and taking care of them. They’re all so independent and growing up too fast. Putting my life and schedules on hold has been a true pleasure. Oh...and I still feel like I can take on the world, with God's help of course!

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Phil. 4:13

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

Girlfriends Getaway

2009-01-26T23:22:00.008-05:00

“When daily routines wear you down, round up your friends for a revitalizing retreat to play, relax, and learn. You’ll return home to loved ones with new energy.” Kathleen Reilly

Last Thursday I headed to meet my girlfriends for our annual Hermosa Beach retreat!! We started this tradition five years ago. My friend Bridget’s generous sister Nancy allows us to live in their beach house for a long weekend in January. We gals come from either Oregon where it rains everyday or Philadelphia where it is cold and snowy. Arriving in Los Angeles in January for us is like heaven!

Five years ago us girls (except Bridget) didn’t know one another. It was a bit risky for us all to trust our one common denominator (Bridget) and go live with other women for five days not knowing much about each other! Amazingly we all loved our time together and felt as if we had all known each other for ever. Hours of drinking coffee together, walks on the strand, and breakfasts at Martha's draws us closer each year. With such vast personalities represented there is always an interesting twist on the numerous topics of conversation. Solving all the world's problems is our expertise! The one cord that binds us all together is our love for God and our desire to know Him more in our lives. We can all just “Be” ourselves. Spending so much time together fosters a sense of honesty even our mothers (at least mine) don’t tell us. For instance this year, within twenty four hours together I was told to shorten my Christmas letter (too small to read, and who cares about Sam's favorite verse!) and my hair should be blonder! Oh, and constipation was a huge topic this year, I learned so much about the colon!

This year we had two more guests join us. Bridget’s younger sister Margarite from Florida and her friend Peggy from Los Angeles. I wasn’t sure how I would like this since I didn’t know them very well and the original group would be different. Well, we/I just loved having them with us! Peggy kept us laughing lots!

Bridget turned 50 recently and it was time to celebrate while we were all together. Her sisters Nancy and Margarite planned a surprise party inviting friends from college and high school to fly in for the festivities. I knew this was going to be such a blessing for Bridget and I could not wait to watch it all unfold.

I have known Bridget for over twenty years. She has been such an inspiration in my life. The big sister I never had. Walking into her surprise party with her and seeing the expression on her face was a moment I will never forget. Many who love her were there to celebrate a special occasion with a friend/sister/Aunt who has gone through some difficult times yet remains strong and an example to all of us what it is to trust in God when life doesn’t make sense, and it down right stinks! She is a woman who oozes with grace, finding only the good in people. I am proud and honored to call Bridget my friend.

After my final walk out to the beach this morning, I headed to the airport in Greg’s (Nancy’s husband) 1957 Ford…very cool!! Consistent with the last five years the memories are sweet from the 09 retreat with the Hermosa girls!

Back home my husband managed three kids with one being sick every day, forcing him to take sick children to work (perks of being the boss). Not once did he complain and make me feel bad for being away. Only phone calls of excitement and eager to know if I was having a good time with the girls! Thank you for the freedom to go Steve! It means more then you know.

Thank you Nancy and Greg for blessing us with your magical house on the beach in Hermosa!

Happy 50th Birthday Bridget!

Hermosa Beach 2009 album http://gallery.me.com/carolynkopca#100719

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

Fluffy Survives The Summer Family

2009-01-19T21:58:00.005-05:00

Hi I’m Fluffy! Sam’s mom has agreed to let me take over her blog today. I’m a stuffed animal dog (not sure what kind). I get to travel home for a week with all the students in Sam’s class. I come in my own bag with a journal. The kids are supposed to write what they did with me during the week. I enjoy my time with each second grader because they are all so unique and I learn neat things about their family.

When I came home to Sam’s house I sat in my bag for a few days because Sam forgot to tell his mom I was there. When she found the bag and asked who it belonged to, Sam proudly claimed me right away (that made me happy)! Sam’s mom wasn’t sure what to do with me so she put me on the table, so their real dog “Ice” wouldn’t eat me. As I looked around the room and in Ice’s crate I could see lots of half eaten stuffed animals. I was glad I was in a safe place.

Watching the Summer family for a few days was quite entertaining. Sam has an older sister Emeline and a younger brother Zachary. They all love to play and have a good time. Once they all come home from school, complete their homework and chores, its PARTY TIME! The noise level in the house is one volume…REALLY LOUD! I liked watching all three scatter to their level of interest. Zachary likes to play games, Emeline spends time with her pet bunny and Sam loves to tinker around. Mostly he likes to build Legos. I’m just a dog, but one of the structures Sam created and built last week blew me away!

Once the weekend came Sam’s mom realized no one had spent any time with me. She felt bad about that so she told Sam he needed to start paying attention to me. She also realized that she would have to set the example. So, on Saturday I went to a basketball game with her (people call her Debbie). The Summers have three basketball games each Saturday and I saw two of them. I sat on Sam’s mom’s lap. There’s something about a mom’s lap that makes me feel secure. It puzzled me though why she went to the game because she sat and talked to a girlfriend the whole time and didn’t see any of the game. In fact one of Mrs. Summer’s other girlfriends came up to her and gave her key events in the game to mention should Emeline ask her if she was watching!

I was supposed to go to a birthday party with Sam but he forgot me so I slept in the car.

My last event with the Summer family was watching the Eagles play the Cardinals yesterday. I was home alone with Sam’s mom. She realized she would be all alone watching the game, everyone else was in different places. Initially she thought she would call someone to go watch the game but then decided it would be just fine to watch the game by herself, after all it would be a nail biter and she didn’t want to miss any part of the game. As her luck would have it Sam, Zach, and Mr. Summer came home because they didn’t want her to be alone. She didn’t want to hurt their feelings so she acted like she was happy they were home but still wanting to concentrate on every single play of the game. She has become quite a football fan, a serious one!!

It was clear in the first half of the game the Eagles were struggling. Sam’s mom was nervous, helping the coaches and referees make better calls. I never saw a lady talk so much to the TV especially during a football game! It was clear this woman was a die hard football fan. It made sense to me that she would want to be alone, no distractions. Unfortunately the Summer household is not where you want to be if you don’t want any distractions. As we were watching the games, Zachary was operating a new remote controlled car that was zipping across the floor making revving engine noises..talk about distracting! Then Sam bought a new Nerf Ball machine gun and was firing multiple pellets across the room. Mrs. Summer does not usually tolerate this behavior but last night she just acted like they weren’t there. I guess that’s how you have to be sometimes in an utterly chaotic household.

I watched a lot of craziness during my week stay at the Summer house, but one thing rang out loud and clear. There’s lots of love and laughter in the house. Mistakes are made but God is honored and grace is extended.

Thanks for letting me share,

“Fluffy”

An Afternoon Sledding

2009-01-11T22:11:00.002-05:00

Winter weather in the Northeast can be unpredictable at best. The last few years have been extremely mild, not much snow at all. Often there will be a threat of a snow storm but then it misses us. The kids get their hopes up for a snow day or a good sledding day only to be disappointed. Yesterday the forecast called for snow. It started over night and by dawn the ground was covered. It looked like a promising snow day, and then it stopped!

Saturdays are busy with three basketball games ranging from possibly 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM. With Steve out of town for the weekend I decided after the games were over we would pile the sleds and ski suits in the car and head north where there was sure to be more snow for sledding! Since the snow wasn’t coming to us we decided to go to the snow.

The kids and I prayed God would show us where to go and how far. I decided driving an hour north on the freeway was sufficient. When I got off the exit we prayed again for a good spot. I told the kids to look for a school or industrial park. Sure enough within 2 miles we saw a large school with very big hills and kids sledding. It was starting to snow which made the conditions perfect!

Sledding is an activity that brings out the kid in me. Who doesn’t love to take a fast ride down a hill, not knowing where you’ll wind up or how far you’ll go? Of course running and jumping on the sled makes it all the more exciting. Watching the kids laugh and race down the hill delights my heart.

After a good long time out in the snow we piled back in the car and thanked the Lord for blessing us with such a wonderful day! Jokingly I said “Now we should pray that God can help us find a Dunkin Donuts so we can get a hot chocolate”. Sure enough, to my surprise, a mile down the road was a Dunkin Donuts. We ordered four hot chocolates with extra whipped cream!

What a fun day. It was a day I felt God smiling down on us. Emeline said “God is really good to us”, referring to the way everything fell into place on our adventure. Sam answered, “God is ALWAYS good to us”. As a mom, that blessed my heart to hear my son understand the sovereignty of God in his own way.

Blessings,

Debbie

I Did It!

2009-01-08T23:15:00.000-05:00

“How long is this going to be?” “Why do we have to do this?” “Are we there yet?” “I don’t want to do that!” “This is too hard!” How much more do I have to do?” “I can’t do this!”

These are frequent phases I hear come out of my nine, seven, and six year old mouths. Whether it is a road trip, homework, chores, sports, or just life in general, our human nature likes and craves the easy road and smooth sailing.

Today I uttered these very phases myself and then some. After fifteen minutes of my first spin class I thought I would die! Coming off a foot injury and having to scale way back on my activities for the last five months has left this gal way out of shape!

After a slow recovery and the o.k. from my doc, I’m ready to slowly ramp up the exercise routine avoiding any high impact aerobics on my foot

After a brief tour of the club and inquiring about membership I met my friend Kelli for the class. I biked with Kelli outside once before…she’s a serious biker, and a strong one at that! I knew she would be my hero in spin class, and she was!

Back to me almost dying…..Although I have scaled back on exercise, I still have played restricted tennis (THE GAME I LOVE!!), and worked out a little at home. We’re talking minimal effort. Still, I went to the class thinking I could hang with the best of them. After fifteen minutes the teacher looked at me as if to say “girl, you’re pathetic!”

Bottom line is I hung in there for the whole 45 minutes, and I didn’t die! Often I could not catch my breath and I felt like my legs would fall off but I survived!!! What a great feeling when it was all over!! I was sure someone would come up and shake my hand congratulating me on my first class, or present me with a coupon for the juice bar, but no one did!

I thought about my kids a lot today while I was sweating, gasping to breath. We all have times and circumstances in our life when we are compelled to complain. The road ahead looks unbearable, down right impossible. Yet as we press on and endure blood, sweat, and tears, there is something satisfying about finishing the race well. I pray with God's help I can instill that in them.

Blessings,

Debbie

My Daily Prayer

2009-01-04T23:02:00.000-05:00

Christmas seems like it was at least a month ago. The kids have been home for over two weeks. The house was a mess and there was urine all over the toilets from little boys with terrible aim! The toppling Christmas tree two days before Christmas broke many of our fragile baby ornaments (sniff). I suppose many moms would be thrilled their little people are going back to school tomorrow and they can have time to themselves, but I’m sad. Yes, I love having the kids home. All my “Debbie” time gladly goes on hold and I’m a 24/7 mom and short order cook!

Having three children so close in age has been a challenge at times, but they are getting to the age where they are so much fun! Although the weather was cold and windy we managed to get out once a day for fresh air and exercise! It doesn’t matter how they go, just as long as they go! Often we would have a friend along for the ride. We loved all the friends who visited us over the break. Dozens of homemade chocolate chip cookies were consumed!

As we rung in the New Year my heart was thankful that I have all my family. No family is perfect, in fact we’re all dysfunctional but that just makes us all normal! I am grateful to have so many in my life who have known me for years and love me just the way I am.

As I look back over 2008 there was a lot of trials for me and many I know. So much changed and yet most is really the same. When God is in charge of your life there is a consistency, stability, and steadfastness that remains undeniable. The storms come and shift the sand around but the Rock doesn’t move. My perspective has changed a great deal along with the lens I view this world. Being a work in progress is hard sometimes but as Christians we have no choice. God will continue to refine us as long as we breathe here on earth.

Although I’m not ready to send my kids back to school tomorrow I know they must go, life goes on, and my journey as Debbie, child of God continues! WOW! Scary, but fun!!

In closing I wanted to share something I read by Max Lucado that has become a daily prayer for me.

“Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek His grace. And then, when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.” AMEN!

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

A Red White And Blue Christmas

2008-12-29T23:41:00.003-05:00

“I just saw the Statue of Liberty!” “That’s Adolf Hitler!”

We obviously have not done a good job at educating our children about Washington, DC. All they knew is we had a special invitation to tour the White House where the President of the United States lives. Then we would see lots of monuments and statues. Their little minds were working hard to make sense of the new surroundings of an exciting, historic city they had never seen before.

A few weeks back I learned a friend of mine Tracy and her family were going to the White House for a tour. Thinking that was such a fun cool thing to do with the family I inquired how I could get tickets for the tour. Tracy is a “Can do” kind of gal. Not only is she busy taking care of four small children, she manages to get them to all kinds of fun activities with a smile on her face and extra energy to spare. Soon after I left a message on her machine, there was a message back to me. She had called our Senator’s assistant Sam for me and had five extra tickets waiting for us. After clearing security measures, we were making arrangements to go to DC!

Steve knows my level of anxiety goes up when we travel together. Our children stand out in a crowd for sure. Whether it’s accidentally running out in a street with cars coming, wondering off, or riding any staircase they can find, I’m constantly catching my breath and thanking God they’re still alive on an hourly basis!

I was thrilled to go see the White House. I had never been before and just the small connection with the President was so exciting for me. I immediately wanted to take all my family and friends with me. How could I experience this without all those I love? Sure, my immediate family was going with me but there were so many others I wanted to share this special occasion with. After all, we were going to the place where many great leaders lived and have made impacts on our lives, freedom, and security as Americans. America would not be what it is without each and every one of them!

The trip was fun with the kids and Steve. The White House was beautifully decorated in Red White and Blue for Christmas. Although the kids were honestly bored by the tour, I enjoyed every step I took and read every plaque and picture on the walls. I imagined what it would be like to watch one of the meetings with the President or enjoy watching the First Lady have tea with her guests.

I found myself feeling a reverence for a place and respect for a person I will most likely never meet yet, I have a personal relationship with The King of Kings and Lord of Lords. WOW! I am so thankful most of the dear friends and family I know also have a relationship with the one and only God, and will join me one day in a much better and more beautiful place then The White House. I pray that I have more opportunity to share with those who do not know Him. We live in a world desperately seeking the truth and answers in life. I pray God uses me to reach others to share how they can have eternal security through Jesus Christ.

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life”. John 3:16

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

Merry Christmas To All Our Friends And Family!

2008-12-25T12:56:00.001-05:00

“The most powerful life is the most simple life. The most powerful life is the life that knows where it’s going, that knows where the source of strength is, and the life that stays free of clutter and happenstance and hurriedness.” Max Lucado.

“God has given a son to us…His name will be Wonderful Counselor, Power God…Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Greetings! We pray you are all doing well. This year has been a challenging year, yet as we look back we can see so many blessings and God’s presence thorough the valleys. I know so many of you can relate in one way or another. Looking for the good in life and asking God to invade our minds and hearts is what keeps us going!

Over the summer we traveled to many spots from sea to shining sea! We love spending time with family and friends. One of the highlights was the kid’s first trip (that they can remember) to Portland Oregon. Hiking into water falls and mountains was right up their alley! All three are adventurous, curious, and have a contagious zeal for life. Meeting new people and going new places is a thrill for them! I wonder who they take after?

Emeline – Had a scare last spring with an undiagnosed condition. After numerous tests and a bone biopsy she was finally cleared of anything “scary”. She will be followed and retested for a period of time to be sure there are no developmental issues. Thank you for all your prayers and support during that time. Emeline is a unique young lady trying to figure out what being nine years old looks like. This year she is a “Tom Boy”. Her favorite color is black and she doesn’t do dresses! A favorite recreational sport for Emeline is football, and she also loves to run. Recently a youth Track & Field coach watched Emeline run six miles around a track, and said to me, “Get that girl running for a T & F club, she’s got natural talent!” Emeline is creative and loves music. This year she started to play the clarinet (just like her mama!). Having only one daughter and the first born leaves us feeling like we don’t know what we’re doing most of the time. Emeline knows she is loved and extends lots of grace to her parents and others. She loves Jesus and sees the need for Him in her life (Praise God!).

Samuel – Continues to grow big like his daddy! His heart has always been and still is precious. The world is black and white for Sam and it all needs to make sense. Sports are a highlight for Sam with football being his favorite. He’s fast and almost graceful as he moves the ball and himself down the field! School is going quite well for Sam. Although he still sees no need to be there (like most boys) he seeks to please and does very well. We are so proud of Sam! Just recently Sam and our family (mostly Sam) were asked to share our family life in a professional video about families with ADHD. The team came after school one day and left before bedtime filming all aspects of Sam’s life. During a personal interview on camera Sam was asked several questions for which he answered with verbiage to include “Honoring the Lord”. As I watched my son proclaiming his values to complete strangers my heart was encouraged that God has great plans for this special boy (Jer. 29:11)

Zachary – Yes, he’s still adorable! Yes, he’s still athletic and yes, he has all the friends in the world! The young and old flock to Zachary seeking a “hello!”, or a “high five!” He is a happy boy and loves life! What more is there to say? Zachary is the most compliant of the three, but they come with challenges too! Being the younger brother Zachary enjoys tormenting Sam, getting any type of attention he can. Often it ends in a rumble on the floor or a boxing match down in the basement. They have both sent each other to the hospital for stitches (unintentional). I know some day they will be the best of friends, at least that’s what my friends tell me!! Zachary is a pure joy to have in our family. He keeps us all laughing!

Steve – Has been busy pulling his Snow Management company through a very difficult time over the last nine months. Drastic changes and adjustments were made to keep us going. Life changed for our family overnight. We appreciate the love, support and prayers of our family and friends. You may never know how much you touched our lives. We humbly pray God blesses you all. Steve’s desire is to continually move in a direction to honor the Lord.

Debbie – I’ve certainly experienced my ups and downs over the last year. I don’t know what I would do without God in my life. What else is there? Life has become simpler which is a good thing! Besides bible study, Moms in Touch (praying moms group), school responsibilities, and tennis, I’ve had a strong desire to write a book. My mother and I get together once a week and write. If the book is never published, the journey and spending time with my mom will be worth it all! My favorite part of being me is my family. With Steve gone so much, the kids and I have learned how to have a whole lot of fun together. We all love to be out and about running, biking, skate boarding, scootering, and roller blading. If it moves or rolls, we do it!! The most precious investment in my life is them. Being the mom of Emeline, Samuel, and Zachary is the biggest responsibility I could imagine. Being the wife of Steve, trying to be a good wife is the most humble experience of all! I can only be a good mom and wife with the help of God.” I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13. Finally, I’m an official blogger!

In closing we pray you all have a happy healthy New Year! “The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The Lord life up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Sweet blessings and love to you and your families,

Stephen, Debbie, Emeline, Samuel, and Zachary, Ice (the dog), Ben (the bird), ? (new bunny)

An Unwanted Kayak And A Dead Bunny!

2008-12-23T21:56:00.004-05:00

With Christmas just a few days away I was all set for the big day. In fact I was ready last week! Living with a husband who works so much and children that keep me in perpetual crisis mode, being done early with shopping, wrapping, Christmas letters, baking, etc. was a must!

Christmas is not a huge deal in our family with the gift giving. Steve and I don’t care about gifts ourselves and we both receive more joy out of giving then receiving. Stressing the real meaning of Christmas is what we focus most on this time of year with the kids. That said, kids will be kids and they have their special requests for gifts.

Since last summer all Samuel has asked for is a kayak. That’s a pretty big ticket item for a seven year old and all he talked about. Sam’s birthday is in February and he bargained to forgo any birthday gifts if he could just have a kayak for Christmas. When praying Sam asks the Lord “If it be your will for me, please let me have a kayak!” With a very generous mother and some of our help Sam will receive his bright yellow kayak and paddle for Christmas. We’ve had it since a recent sale at our local sports store.

Emeline has repeatedly asked for a new bunny. Her beloved bunny “Fir ball” died last winter. Only recently did Steve decide we would get a bunny for Emeline. I took her to the pet store where she found an adorable dwarf bunny. She was mostly white with some black spots. On the side I paid for the bunny and secretly asked the manager to hold the bunny until Steve could come pick the bunny up. I was so excited for her!

Since then Emeline keeps asking about the bunny and Steve has now led her to believe the bunny might not be a Christmas present. I have taken her back to the pet store and the special bunny she liked is gone (Steve had it!!) While at the pet store Sam saw a puppy he fell in love with. “Mommy, I don’t want a kayak anymore, I want a new puppy!” I replied “YOU’RE NOT GETTING A PUPPY!” After all, we have one very active dog and I have not one ounce of desire in me to have another dog! Besides that we already have the kayak!! Sam has been very sad to think he cannot have this puppy that apparently bonded with him at the pet store while we were looking for a bunny that wasn’t there because we already bought it!

Feeling bad for Sam but not caring too much, I received a call from Steve. He had the bunny at his office, hiding it from Emeline. “The bunny is dead!” Of course it is, were my thoughts. Nothing seems to go right when it really needs to!!

So now we have an unwanted kayak and a dead bunny two days before Christmas! It’s a good thing we’re not parents who bank the day on what our kids get and how perfect the day is. The kayak and bunny will work its way out, (not sure how) it always does.

My prayer is that we can spend the time as a family and celebrate The Savior being born and how that single moment in time changed us all forever!

Blessings and Merry Christmas!

Debbie

A Nightmare Experience At The Vet

2008-12-16T23:00:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I had an unexpected afternoon. First I had to take all three kids to the dentist because Emeline had a sore tooth, then shoot over to the veterinarian with the dog (something wrong with his eye). When Steve asked me to take all three kids and a very hyper dog to the vet, I thought “Are you kidding me?” Then I knew I had to do it on my own.

Emeline had not one cavity but two. The bill was devastating and we left. I lectured her the whole way home about how she will have to pay half of the bill. If she is going to not take care of her teeth and eat junk food then she can pay for her teeth.

After a quick bowl of soup for dinner we headed out to the vet with our black lab Ice. While in the car, he ate all the kid's snacks for the ride. Ice creates a whole new dynamic to my utterly chaotic gang. He is quite a hand full! When we arrived at the vet I told the kids I was in charge and the only one holding him, knowing other dogs will be there and he will pull hard to get to them. Sure enough as we walked in, Ice RAN me inside knocking over trash cans to get to the dogs. It was an instant chaos scene! I was trying with all my might to restrain him, the kids were running around and I felt completely out of control (I WAS!). Everyone got up and moved as far away from us as they could with Ice trying to get to their dogs. We were ushered into a secluded area where Ice could not see other dogs. I started to feel back in control when Ice pooped on the floor. My kids started complaining how much it smelled. I went and got a paper towel to wipe it up asking Emeline to hold Ice. Then Ice had diarrhea all over the floor! A new dog came in and Ice pulled Emeline up out of her seat and she slid in the diarrhea! Fairly quickly a nurse came to me and said “Mrs. Summer we have a room for you.” I told her that was a good way to get fast service in a busy waiting room!

Since Ice was nervous three of us had to restrain him to get his weight. Emeline did not realize I was standing behind her but as she was trying to help hold Ice down she punched me in the jaw (ouch!). We sat in this tiny room for over an hour, the three kids, Ice, and me. Can you imagine the condition we were in when the doctor finally came to see us? The boys were pushing and punching each other while the doctor was trying to explain how I should give Ice his medicine. After the doctor reprimanded my boys, he turned to me and told me to go home and have a glass of wine!

My two hour visit was a nightmare, something you would see in the movies and laugh hysterically, only I wasn’t laughing. Then they made me pay for the nightmare experience! Imagine that!!

Today has been calmer, no mishaps, just a status quo day. I like those days!

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

Lights, Camera, Action!

2008-12-09T21:57:00.001-05:00

Family and friends have jokingly told us we need to write a book on our family, some say a movie could be produced! All our life experiences from trips to the ER, managing two crazy boys, raising a daughter with wisdom beyond her years, just to mention a few. Wherever I go, whomever I’m with, I have a funny story to share about the Summer gang.

Recently I was contacted to interview for an agency doing a study on ADHD children. After the interview I was contacted again and asked if the agency could come with camera men and do a professional video on our family. With the Christmas holiday in full swing I didn’t have much time to think about it.

Yesterday four guests came to my house from 2:00 until 8:30 PM, watching and interviewing our family. They brought lighting, cameras, video cameras, and a very large microphone that took one person to operate!

The leading character was Samuel. I wasn’t sure how he would mange his instant fame but prayed above all, these strangers would see Jesus in my children and I!

At first Sam seemed embarrassed to have the spotlight and cameras on him doing homework and eating his chocolate chip cookies. I actually saw him blush for the very first time! Then he became more comfortable with the process and realized they were very kind and not going away. I agreed to let the agency interview Sam and ask him some questions. Sam preferred they go up to his room and requested I stand outside his room (Ouch!!).

The funny part of Sam’s interview was he sat on his bed and during the course of the interview Sam took on at least ten different positions from laying down to sitting up, hanging his feet off the bed, picking at his pants, scratching his back, etc, with a video camera, microphone and light following his every move. The best part of Sam’s interview is four questions were answered by Sam with the words “Honoring the Lord”. One question, Sam talked about school and how he sometimes gets in trouble and that makes him feel sad. When asked why getting in trouble makes him feel sad, he replied “Because it is dishonoring to the Lord”. My prayers were answered through Sam.

The next interview was with Emeline who loves the camera, this was her moment to shine! She sang a song for the camera, played her clarinet, and did all kinds of crazy poses for the still-life camera person as well as sharing her life experiences.

During one of my many interviews yesterday I was asked how I mange my life, where do I go personally to find rest? My reply was “God”, “My faith”, “Prayers”. Of course I then gave so much credit to all the wonderful doctors, professionals, and mostly the amazing friends God has blessed me with, encouraging a light heart, and lots of laughs along the way!

I don’t know whether the company captured all they set out to do, but one thing was for sure. God was honored and glorified yesterday as we sat around the dinner table with our guests, holding their hands, and asking the blessing on the food and our time together.

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

A Live Nativity

2008-12-06T22:44:00.002-05:00

“Are you crazy?” was a girlfriend’s response when I told her I was taking my three lovely children to participate in a Live Nativity scene. I knew it was most likely not going to go smoothly and at least one of my boys would be kicked off the set before the end of the night, but I was willing to give it a shot. After all, how many times are you asked to take part in such a special event?

When I told Emeline, Samuel, and Zachary what the plans were, I was immediately socked with resistance. “Why do we have to do that?” “It’s going to be too cold!” “How many minutes are we going to be there?” “Can I be Mary?” “I want to be a King!”. I was exhausted dodging all the questions and making it sound like we would have the time of our life. I assured the kids if they did this just once I would never ask them to do it again. I had to bribe them with a treat after it was all over.

A dear friend of mine was in charge of the show, and I could never say no to my friend Ruthie! We all piled in the car with many layers of warm clothes, hats, gators, and gloves. Along came the snacks and drinks as well!

Upon arrival at the church the roles were assigned. Emeline and Sam were a king and Zachary was a shepherd. If I could only have a picture of the look on Emeline’s face when she was told she would be a king. That was probably the very last character she wanted to be. I had a quick talk with her about how we need to be flexible and do this for Aunt Ruthie!

Before the first scene my boys started acting up, pushing each other, rolling down stairs, acting like anything but a king and a shepherd! I had to pull Sam out of the first scene to go make a call to his father. When we came back I learned that someone drove by the nativity and threw a raw egg at the shepherds! It was a very disrespectful act but I wish I could have been there to see it!

The night turned out fine. Sam made it through the night with only a few reminders from the “powers to be” that kings shouldn't bounce all over the place! Emeline was reprimanded for being too theatrical, waving her hands in the air to the beat of the carolers. Kings should not dance like that!

The newspaper camera person came and took pictures. Sam will be in the paper. Who knew!! My special King! An adorable one at that!!

After two hours of a live nativity we were all ready to go home. It was fun, and we’re glad we went. A trip to Friendly’s was in order with us moms and the kids. When anyone asks how the night went, I tell them it went as well as you would think my kids would do in a live Nativity! Utterly Chaotic!

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

Turkey And "Stuff!"

2008-11-28T11:47:00.002-05:00

Our Thanksgivings are usually spent alone. Any local family I have either leaves for the holiday or spends the day with other relatives, which can feel a little lonely. It is one of my favorite holidays…I love the turkey dinner and feeling of no pressure, just enjoyment for the day and thinking of reasons for which I am thankful.

This year was different. Since my sister and her family are headed to a warm destination for Christmas they decided to come from Indiana to spend the holiday with us. All other relatives decided to stay in town as well. I was so excited they would all be coming to my house to celebrate the holiday! We would be twenty one strong and in my mind, that‘s the way Thanksgiving should be!

On Monday my mother-in-law arrived for the week. She is a wonderful woman but never the less a visitor, someone who wants to help and please and I couldn’t think of much for her to do!

Tuesday my sister arrived and that night we started a string of dinners at my house with many little kids, mostly boys! The girls are quieter, but the drama between the two can raise anyone’s eyebrows.

Having so many people in my house for nights on end took its toll on the house for sure. I now have new holes in the wall, we had a flood in the basement from the toilet over flowing due to a “foreign object” flushed, red clay smashed in my dining room carpet just to mention a few.

I have local relatives that will never allow us to come to their house and the crowd can’t go to my mom’s because my eighty year old dad cannot tolerate the kids.

Over the years I have had to make adjustments to my expectations of holidays with the family here. I had to choose them all feeling welcome in my house over it staying in “One Piece”. I had to choose love over resentment for those not willing to step up to the plate and help. Accepting the role of referee when the kids are together gives me the opportunity to teach them about how to get along and what God says in the Bible about relationships.

The last four days have been busy and utterly chaotic. I can’t remember what day it is, but one thing is for sure, the good memories of Thanksgiving 2008 outweigh the challenges. Playing kick ball with the kids and adults was a highlight! Having everyone chip in to make something for the dinner made it enjoyable for everyone. Seeing the kids play and get along (for the most part) was a blessing. Watching the boys “sled” down the stairs was hysterical! The best part was looking around the crowded dinner table and being thankful for each and every person there. We ALL have our differences, yet our love for one another sets them aside and we choose to see the best in each other. For this, I am very thankful.

“That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height – to know that love of Christ which passes knowledge: that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” Ephesians 3:17-19

Blessings,

Debbie

A Humble Moment

2008-11-23T21:54:00.000-05:00

When Steve and I took our first tour of the house we live in, my first thoughts, coming from a town house were “This house is too big to clean it on my own. I was pregnant with my second child and had an eighteenth month old little girl. Of course, I articulated this to my husband and put it right out there with signing the contract!

The generous man my husband is agreed and for all these years I have had a wonderful person clean my house twice a month. I looked forward to those two days a month when Scott would come and clean the house. If it was appropriate I would have bowed to him when he came. It was a luxury I appreciated!

Circumstances have changed and I must now clean my house. It takes two days of cleaning to get through just the upstairs and the downstairs (forget the finished basement!). This has become a family event. Everyone chips in and does their part. However, the one area I must clean on my own is the kitchen. After all it is the most “used” room and my domain. It gets the “works”, everything from the walls, cabinets, floors and windows. It’s the last room in the house and no other room when clean makes me feel so good!

Yesterday as the kids and I were cleaning Sam came in and asked me if he could mop the kitchen floor. Now, I’m all about making my kids a part and allowing them to do a job and not correct it, but NOT THE KITCHEN FLOOR! Since we weren’t doing the kitchen yet I just said” I don’t know, maybe”, hoping he would forget. Again came the question, “Mommy could I mop the floor when it comes time, I’m really good at it?” I was getting annoyed he kept asking me, I really didn’t want him doing the floor, how could he possibly do the job I know needs to be done?

Finally, it was late last night and the time was coming to mop the floor. I had the kids go up and get a bath. I figured I could quickly get the floor done while Sam was in the bath. Just my luck he was downstairs before I knew it, “Mommy, are you ready to have the floor mopped?” My last resort was to tell him how hard it was to do the floor and if he really wants to do it I would have to stand with him and make sure it’s done right. “That’s o.k. mommy, you can watch me.”

Not only did Sam do a beautiful job on the kitchen floor but he did two bathrooms, a mud room, and a large foyer. He did a better job then me!! I apologized to Sam and told him I feel just terrible. “Why would you feel terrible mommy?” “Because the floors only get mopped well twice a month and I wanted to make sure they were done right. YOU did such a great job, and I feel bad that I doubted that!”

When circumstances change in our lives and things become less comfortable then what we have known, I’ve come to learn there is always an opportunity to grow and allow God to show us things in us and others that we never knew before!

Sweet Dreams and blessings,

Debbie

Good vs. Godly

2008-11-17T21:44:00.004-05:00

Yesterday in church my pastor said something that I will never forget. A true revelation! He explained the difference between a good man and a godly man. The term “Godly” gets thrown around a lot in the church. “Oh, she’s so godly,” or “He’s a godly husband.” I personally don’t use this term much because I never understood the definition of Godly! It’s almost like the word “love”. It’s overused. I’ve never considered myself godly, just someone who tries to do the right thing. I do love God and I want to please Him, yet I am also aware of my shortcomings.

Our pastor said the difference between a good man and a godly man is how the good man (most of us are good willed) reacts when things aren't so good. How does the good man respond when someone slanders him? How does the good man respond when life gets really hard? That simple statement meant so much to me and clarified so much.

How about Job? Now that’s a guy who had reason to complain. His empire collapsed, his children were killed, and what was a healthy body became a rage of boils. Job refused top give up on God, even though he didn’t understand what was happening to him and why. Now that’s a godly man.

And Joseph? His brothers sold him for a slave, then he turns around and says “What you meant for evil, God meant for good.” Another godly guy.

What about today? Do I know any Godly people? That was my question to me yesterday. Do I have the pleasure of knowing people who are good even when they are put through the fire? I mean multiple fires? Yes, and I am thankful for these people in my life. God has used them in so many ways to show His love, grace, and mercy to me. These people are not judgmental, they are painfully aware of God’s grace in their own lives.

I don’t know that I will ever fall under the category of “Godly”, but I’m thankful I know people who point me in that direction and better yet I have a God who wants just that for me. The Great I Am!

“And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord””. Job 1:21

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

Good Bye Charlie

2008-11-10T21:39:00.005-05:00

While away I received the dreaded call of a child crying. It was a voice message from Sam. Charlie, his pet parakeet just died. To hear the voice of my son try to compose himself while his heart was breaking was precious. In the message Sam went on and on about what a great bird Charlie was and sad that he is no longer amongst the living. Sam then prayed on my voicemail thanking God for the opportunity to have such a special bird. “Thank you Lord for Charlie, he was a great bird, and I will miss him very much. Even though I have asked for a kayak for Christmas, it would be nice if I can get a new bird too! In your name I pray…amen”

Once I heard the message I immediately called Sam and we cried together as we talked about all the fun times with Charlie and how I use to scream when he got out of his cage and fly all over the house. I told Sam I would miss Charlie keeping me company during the day. He use to chirp away as Ice (our dog) would stand there hoping he would fall out of his cage so he could eat him for lunch!

Since I was away Sam did not want to bury Charlie and he also wanted his mom mom and pop pop to come pay their last respects. For two weeks now Charlie has been in the freezer in a zip lock bag waiting for a funeral. We forgot to bury him last week and almost let this past weekend go by without the funeral. If it wasn’t for us moms, none of these momentous occasions would happen!

Saturday night Sam wrote out the funeral arrangements and a song for Charlie. It was to include our family singing, Steve playing the guitar, and Emeline playing the clarinet. Since the song “Ode to joy” is the only song Emeline knows, that was the tune for the song.

Yesterday Charlie went to his final resting place. Initially Sam wanted to build a nest for Charlie and put him in a tree. I said, “Absolutely, not, at some point he’ll fall out and the dog will eat him!” Charlie deserved better then that.

We all said our good-byes and buried the beloved bird right next to Emeline’s bunny Firball and our dog Jake. We’ve got quite the cemetery going on in our back yard!

Having pets has taught our kids great lessons from responsibility to dealing with the loss of something they love dearly. It was a precious moment as a family to gather around a tiny hole in the ground to pay honor and respect for one of God’s creatures that even He cares for.

“Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from the Father’s will”. Matthew 10:29. God is aware of everything that happens, even Charlie dying! How much more does He know and care about our well being!

Blessings,

Debbie

Make My Toes Shorter?

2008-11-05T22:45:00.001-05:00

After five months of pain in my foot, I returned for the second time to the foot specialist who treats all the professional ballet dancers in my city. With the pain in the ball of my foot and into my toes, I knew I was in good hands with Dr, Chau.

Six weeks ago I was advised my tennis injury was due to ligaments in my foot “just dying to pop out.” They’ve become so stretched and unstable. The best part of it all is the doc wrapped my toes to restrict the ligaments and gave me a pad for my shoe advising me the ligaments will most likely heal on their own. Great! I was willing to keep my activity level restricted while nursing my foot back to health. This wonderful doctor of mine told me I could play occasional tennis, and that makes me happy!

Today as I waited for the doctor to come in I contemplated whether to tell her how I was really feeling. I was trying to decide if I could just live with this pain. After all, I don’t want a cast or boot or be told to not do anything at all, or worst of all the s….. word! Actually, this would be a good time to go out on the disabled list because most of my dear “jock” friends are injured. We could start a support group! The fact of the matter is my foot still hurts, maybe a little worse. The tape helps for sure but without it I can’t walk without pain and favoring it.

As Dr. Chau examined my foot she told me the reason I had this condition is because my second and third toes are too long, they’re longer then my big toe and they really should be shorter especially for someone who likes sports. The next step? We wait six weeks and then talk surgery. Yes, she wants to cut both of the bones in my two toes and make them shorter! Make them shorter? OUCH!!!!!!! Now, I’m no rocket scientist but that sounds like a really big deal! I am not a surgery person. I have a shoulder that need to be put back together but that’s just not going to happen for me anytime soon, hopefully never. Shorter toes? We’ll have to see about that one.

My life is so busy with my kids I hardly have time to think about myself, and that’s a good thing especially now that I have my foot to fret about! Steve is not happy to hear I may need surgery but he has always wanted me to wear Birkenstock sandals, they’re his favorite shoe. If my toes are shorter I will fit the mold better for the Birkenstocks. If I do need surgery after all, while most husbands would give their wives a beautiful bouquet of flowers after a rough painful day in the OR, I’ll most likely be presented with a pair of Birkenstocks!

“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps”. Proverbs 16:9

Prayers are appreciated for my foot and toes!! I like them just the way they are!!

Blessings,

Debbie

World Series Championships 2008

2008-10-29T22:29:00.002-04:00

Like every other non-baseball loving person, I waited until the Phillies made it to the championships before I gave them the time of day. In the fall I want to talk football and soccer, not baseball!

The academy where my kids attend kept having “Phillies Day”, and of course I had nothing for them to wear other then the color red. Finally one of my girlfriends called me and told me she was sending extra Phillies shirts for my kids to wear “Great, thanks!”

My kids picked their shirts based on the style and size that suited them, not the name, we didn’t know any of them!

The first time I watched the games with my boys, I tried to explain the rules of the game and it felt like me trying to explain the English language to them. Some rules just don’t make any sense!

Through it all, fighting against elements that would send a mailman running, the Phillies pulled the championship off for themselves tonight! The Philadelphia fans were rocking the stadium and when the final Rays batter struck out clinching the win, the place went wild! Of course me being for the underdog felt badly for the other team. Not that I wanted us to loose, but I can’t imagine how sad Tampa Bay must feel. Oh well, I’ll get over it!

As with any team there are clearly certain players everyone counts on to “Bring it home!”, yet without everyone working hard together as a team there is no team!

Growing up my dad wanted me to be in the band so that is what I did instead of sports. In my adult life I’ve come to realize that I was born for sports and love it. Having the privilege of learning the game of tennis and playing competitively has taught me so much about sportsmanship that I did not learn growing up. Believe it or not, grown women can get quite fired up on the tennis court. It astounds me when I see it. No one likes to win a tennis match more then me, but if you can’t go out there and have fun while being competitive, in my humble opinion, you don’t belong out there!!

Congratulations Phillies!!!!!!

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

I Don't Do Blood!

2008-10-28T23:03:00.004-04:00

A local favorite diner was advertising 50% off their dinners tonight so I piled the kids in the car and met my parents for a dinner out. I didn’t care what I ate, having someone serve me a meal is always a blessing, with no clean up!!

Upon our arrival home it was dark, windy, and cold. I couldn’t wait to get the kids a bath and climb into my pajamas. We would have just enough time to snuggle and watch some TV before bedtime.

As my car pulled up to the driveway and came to a stop Sam jumped out of the car closing the door on Zachary. Zachary swung the door open and hit Sam in the head with the door.

Sam started screaming, and initially I thought he was over reacting. Not feeling terribly alarmed I gathered everything I could carry in my arms and headed out of the car to calm Sam down. Then I saw blood everywhere! On his hands, in his nose, his mouth, and all over his face. I immediately started screaming which made Sam scream louder! Panic rushed though my brain. “What should I do?” “Call 911”. “No, don’t call 911 yet!” I quickly realized I must calm down for the sake of Sam. Once he saw me panic, his anxiety escalated.

I have experienced many many injuries with my kids. For some reason I can handle broken bones but I don’t do well with blood. I’m initially petrified it’s much worse then it is. Seeing blood everywhere and having your kid screaming is not a pleasant situation.

I assured Sam as I was saturating paper towels with his blood that he was going to be just fine. First I thought he had a very large horizontal gash in his head, and then I realized it was a piece of bloody wet hair. Then I thought it was a gash on his eyelid, and my heart sank. I started to cry and pray that this would not be so bad. Then I realized that there was a much smaller cut, (only an inch) high on Sam’s forehead. Thank you Jesus! I reminded myself that head wounds bleed excessively.

I had Emeline call Steve while I was applying pressure to the cut (I learned that from when I did call 911 once due to a head trauma). Steve came right home from work to take Sam to the ER.

After a conversation with the Plastic Surgeon, Steve was advised stitching would define a future scar more. The type cut Sam has will scar with or without stitches. For cosmetic reasons, the decision was made to glue Sam’s head back together.

I don’t know that I’ll ever be good at seeing and working with blood. I’m thankful in the heat of the moment, I knew God would take care of Sam, and I was so very thankful it was not any more serious.

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

A Little R & R

2008-10-28T10:31:00.002-04:00

Spending the weekend in sunny southern California on the beach with a dear friend leaves you feeling like life just can’t get any better.

Upon arrival Friday afternoon Bridget and I put our bathing suits on, headed for the beach taking a dip in the ocean. Diving through the waves like a couple of high school girls, squealing over the cold brought back so many fond memories. Watching the dolphins swim by and a seal kept our eyes gazed on the shining sea wondering what would swim by next! Unfortunately my trip to the house for a shower caused me to miss a whale sighting!!

Having no agenda besides long walks on the strand, a nap on the beach, or watching a spectacular sunset relaxes your mind. Heart to heart conversations and many laughs relaxes your soul for sure. What is it about being with someone who totally accepts you for you? No feelings of being judged, just acceptance. That has been the core of our relationship for over twenty years. We have seen each other go through many ups and downs yet our friendship has stood strong and weathered the storms of life. Through it all our desire for one another is to encourage each other in the ways of the Lord. Bridget is an example of speaking the truth in love.

Growing up I was a “people pleaser”. God has shown me over the years that it is Him I am to seek to please and not man. Although God calls us to be peacemakers, our ultimate goal should be to please Him only. I now see my daughter struggling with these issues and because of what I have learned, God has given me wisdom and discernment to guide Emeline. As I share verses from the Bible with her I am also reminded of the need to be in prayer for this in my own life.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you”. Matthew 6:33

“and whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men”. Colossians 3:23

As the alarm went off at 4:30 AM to begin my day of traveling back east, the refreshment of the weekend lingers yet the reality of going home to my family makes me long to see my husband and the kids. Having a husband that freely lets me go away for a few days without the kids and then actually manages them quite well is an added blessing. THANK YOU STEVE!!

I am humbled for this trip, my heart is grateful to Nancy and Greg for not only allowing us to come stay at their beach house but throwing in the shiny convertible sports car! Bridget and I looked pretty snazzy zipping around town, especially with Bridget’s red hair blowing in the wind! My hair doesn’t blow as well.

Blessings,

Debbie

Traveling Solo

2008-10-25T16:15:00.000-04:00

Traveling is something I love to do. In fact the very thought of it and possibilities of places to go gives me an adrenaline rush! For me, the planning and anticipation of the trip is almost as much fun as the trip itself. Our kids are at the perfect traveling age. They still think we’re cool and want to be with us. They enjoy going to new places and they all love an exciting adventure! Whether they’re hiking the water falls in Oregon or surfing in the Atlantic Ocean, my guys and doll fully engage and enjoy every experience! As a mom, my greatest joy is watching them have fun. I believe God is all about us enjoying life. He tells us in the Bible, He desires for us to have an abundant life, and is delighted to see us as His children enjoying life.

Our family life has changed over the last several months. Many adjustments needed to be made. We entered into a phase of financial crisis. Steve has done an amazing job at providing and moving us forward but our situation has thrown me into a single mom role (Monday thru Friday) for months now. It can make you feel like you’re just out there traveling solo in life. There were certainly times of despair, but God was and is faithful to see us through. Whether it was through prayer, reading the Bible, or my close friends, God spoke volumes to me and I wouldn’t trade this for anything. Was it easy? Absolutely not. Having so much of what you are use to taken away forces you to re-evaluate whether what you had was necessary to begin with. Needless to say, all travel plans are on hold.

During the last few months of our lives I have experienced peace and joy in ways like never before. Through the rough times, I was still able to be Camp Director for my kids. I love to bake chocolate chip cookies before they come home from school, and then take them out apple picking, biking, fishing, or anything else we can find to do that’s fun.

I am aware each and every day that we only get one chance at that day. We can choose if we want to be happy or sad. Some days sadness can overwhelm us, and that’s o.k. But God tells us that His mercies are new every morning. He gives us new doses every day!! I’m a walking testimony of that. “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning, great is Your faithfulness” Lamentations 3:22-23.

Today I’m physically traveling solo. For my birthday Steve gave me a frequent flier ticket to go meet Bridget, one of my very dearest friends, in L.A. for the weekend. Oh, and a beach house and car is provided for us. THANK YOU NANCY!!! YOU’RE THE BEST!!! I’m leaving behind a sick child and an injured one. Thank goodness I have a husband who was more then willing to step up to the plate and mange things while I’m away.

As I got on the plane I was missing the family and feeling like maybe I should not have made these arrangements. After praying awhile, I read a devotional which I believe God hand picked just for me today. It was titled “Lying down in green pastures” “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside the still waters, He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His names sake”. Psalm 23:1-3 Over the next few days I plan to lie down in green pastures, well on the beach! I also look forward to eating my favorite havarti and corn egg scramble at Martha’s on the strand!!

Blessings,

Debbie

Pooped Out!

2008-10-21T22:23:00.004-04:00

This morning I woke up with a good night’s sleep under my belt which makes me feel ready to tackle the day! I had enough time to let the dog out and jump on the stair stepper for a workout before waking all the little people up in the house. As I approached the kitchen I caught a whiff of dog poop. Ice (our black lab) was in his crate crying. He obviously had an intestinal problem and then laid in it (YUCK!). No problem, I took him outside and hosed him off enough until I could give him a bath, then took the crate outside until I had time to tend to it. I worked out for a little while then started the beginning preparations of breakfast.

Once the kids were up I had my coffee in hand ready to help especially the boys. Being on a schedule to catch the bus, we need to move along at a certain pace. As I was helping Sam get a shirt on he accidentally poked me in the eye with his fingers which really hurt. After that I went into Zachary’s room, and as I was helping him on with a sweatshirt, he accidentally punched me in the mouth (UGH!).

Feeling a little “beat up” we all headed downstairs to one of my favorite parts of the day. BEING THE SHORT ORDER COOK! I love whipping up whatever my guys and doll want for breakfast. Once the bus comes and they leave for the day, my kitchen looks like a bulldozer went through it. I don’t mind, as I recall all the special requests of the morning, and all the different ways I made the eggs! Sending them off with a full belly, a prayer, and a hug from their mommy is such a blessing.

It came time to tend to the dog. First of all, he’s not tops on my list right now as he has been eating my mum plants and stealing my gourds and playing with them around the yard like they are his balls. In addition he has ruined my decorative pillows on the bench. Setting that all aside, I bathed him and the crate, only to realize that he still stunk and so did the crate. After his second bath as well as the crate, I was hopeful I got it all.

Time for my devotions, reading the Bible and praying. Having a good night’s sleep, and having a devotional time with God makes all the difference in a good day! “To choose life is to love the LORD your God, obey Him, and stay close to Him” Deut. 30:20

After a brief call to our orthopedic surgeon who will see Zachary tomorrow and an unofficial diagnosis of a growth plate fracture, I ran into Sam’s room to check on Charlie the parakeet that was flying around Sam’s room! He had escaped from his cage for the second day in a row! I don’t do parakeets, so I closed the door and let the bird fly around Sam’s room all day. Finally, I left to go meet my mom at Barnes and Noble to work on our “Special Project”.

When the kids arrived home, it was time for them to do their homework, chores, then off for Tuesday afternoon apple picking! Emeline’s chore was to clean five dog poops off the lawn. Apparently Sam stepped in one of the poops and brought it into my car. Not only did he have dog poop on him, it was now in the car as well. I must say at this point I had utterly had it with dog poop, I spend a good part of the day feeling nauseous and I didn’t want to smell it anymore!!!

We finally got everything cleaned up, and by the way Charlie is back in his cage!

At this late hour, I’m feeling all POOPED OUT!!

Sweet Dreams and Blessings,

Debbie

Moms In Touch

2008-10-16T22:39:00.001-04:00

Making a commitment to be somewhere mid afternoon on a weekly basis is difficult for me. I have lots of excuses to justify that statement but none of which sounds like a good one. The fact of the matter is I’m a morning person and I prefer to get all my business done then. Once I’ve started my day it’s hard to switch gears.

For years I’ve been invited to a Moms In Touch prayer group. When the kids were young it was during nap time, and for the last few years it was when I needed to go pick up the kids from school. Now that they all ride the bus I have more free time then before. I made a committment to God that I was going to follow through with getting together with women on a weekly basis to pray for my children.

Praying is something I try to sit and do everyday, or at the very least in the shower! As someone comes to mind during the day, I pray and ask the Lord to bless them or pray specifically for their circumstances. I pray with my children at night and at meals, but I must say, there are times when the same prayer is prayed due to total exhaustion at the end of the day!

“Where two or more are gathered in My name, there I am in the midst of them” Matthew 18:20

There are not many of us if we’re honest that will claim to have it all together when it comes to our prayer lives, it can seem very abstract and confusing as to what to do and how to do it.

Sitting with a group of women who have come together to share the treasures of their heart, their children, is a blessing! It is not a social time to “catch up” but a time to lift our guys and dolls to Jesus and ask Him to teach them, guide them, and to see the need for Him in their lives. Each week we choose only one child to pray specifically for. Those who know me well know I am not a crier (especially in movies (ha!)) but when I’m praying for my children, the floodgates just open up, I’m so humbled that we have such an awesome God who loves us and loves our children even more then we do!! That’s just amazing!

“Pour out your heart like water before the face of the Lord…Lift up your hands toward Him for the lives of your children.” Lamentations 2:19

www.momsintouch.org

"Praying for our children is a noble task. If what we are doing, in this fast-paced society, is taking us away from prayer time for our children, we're doing too much. There is nothing more special, more precious than time that a parent spends struggling and pondering with God on behalf of a child" Max Lucado

Sweet Dreams and Blessings,

Debbie

Hunting For Sharks Teeth

2008-10-13T22:40:00.001-04:00

With the weather being extra warm for this time of year, the outside activities are overwhelming. There’s the usual harvest type activities like pumpkin picking, apple picking, and hay rides, but with the unusually warm weather, you’re compelled to keep the summer going! Yesterday we went to the beach, and yes, the kids went in the water!!

Today the kids were off school and we had to choose what we should do with our afternoon. Our friends asked us to go apple picking which sounded like fun but we decided to venture out for one last summer fling and go hunting for Sharks Teeth!

We started the afternoon off with having all hunters and moms over for lunch. Trying to feed six energetic children was utterly chaotic but we managed to get a little food in them, and away we went.

When we arrived at the stream where the hunt would begin, we piled out of the car with screens, buckets, shovels and personalized baggies for each hunter. My three kids had done this before, but the other three were novices. I was anxious to see how this would all play out. “Would my kids help the others?” “Would the others even find any teeth?” I was praying the day would be fun for everyone. My two girlfriends kept looking at me as if to say “I can’t believe we’re doing this!”

Sure enough, everyone found teeth and had a blast! What is it about kids, mud, a stream, and treasures? The simples things for sure. The best kind of entertainment! A sense of accomplishment!

As we left the stream late this afternoon, all the kids had looks of joy on their faces as they held their dirty bags with their trophies! Some would bring them in to school for show in tell, and others would make a necklace out of their teeth. Zachary had many other things in his bag to include a golf ball, glass, and what he thinks is a fossil (the jury is out on that).

The best part of the day for us moms?? Watching each and every child work together, helping each other, laughing, experiencing the thrill of digging, shifting, and discovering Sharks Teeth!

Blessings,

Debbie

Far From Perfect

2008-10-09T22:53:00.002-04:00

It’s been a few years since I have hosted our community Bible study. As a co-facilitator I couldn’t come up with a good reason why I should not have it at my house once again. For six years I traveled twenty miles to school in the morning dropping kids off, but now they are all old enough to ride the bus.

The last time the study was at my house I had a student living with me who helped a great deal with the kids. I also had a cleaning person, and a husband who was home every night. Although we loved the phase of our life when students lived with us, it’s just us five now creating our own energy! I now clean my own house which has to be split up in two day increments for a total cleaning time of ten hours (ugh!). Due to a financial crisis, we only see my husband on the weekends.

Volunteering to have the study sparked some soul searching. I started to focus on all the negative things such as:

- We haven’t kept up with the landscaping and it looks awful!
- The dog ate my beautiful pillows outside on the bench, now they have holes in them.
- The dog also chewed the beautiful wood benches on the front porch.
- The inside of the house is half done from a renovation put on hold two years ago

I could go on and on but I knew this utter fretting was wrong and needed to be worked out in my heart and mind. Oh, and by the way, I think my whole house smells like PEE!

Somehow I got away from the whole reason I was having the study….to show the love of Jesus, and encourage others to grow in Him.

Who was I kidding thinking everything should look just perfect? My life is far from perfect, I’m a work in progress and thank God we have a God who does not demand perfection. Actually, He does demand perfection but realized we needed help in that area so He sent His son to die on the cross to save us from our sins. Once we accept that amazing gift we can spend eternity in heaven

“For God so loved the world, that He sent His one and only son. Whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

The first day came for the study and my house was far from perfect but I was at peace to know I cleaned the toilets, sprayed air freshener, lit a candle, and mopped the floor. For me, that’s about as good as it gets for company.

The best part about the day is once the ladies arrived none of my concerns mattered. We were joined by the Holy Sprit who blessed us all with the love of Jesus, the fellowship was sweet, and our hearts we encouraged to grow in Him!

Sweet blessings to you,

Debbie

"All About Me" Day!

2008-10-03T23:22:00.002-04:00

Having a birthday in October puts me right in there with the multitudes. I could rattle off ten names easily of friends and family who share a birthday within days of my own. Today is mine and I enjoyed every minute of it!

A birthday celebration for me is extending it for the entire month of October. Why? Because my favorite thing to do is spend one on one time with friends and family. Having a dear friend take time out of her busy schedule to talk on the phone or meet me for a cup of coffee is what makes me happy. Although I appreciate gifts, I would choose someone spending time with me over a gift. I know how precious time is to all of us.

The festivities started last night when two friends took me out and of course we solved all the worlds’ problems with no barriers. Instead of avoiding politics and religion, they were the main topics covered last night!

Today I got up and got the kids off to school. As I waved good-bye and threw kisses as the bus drove away, I wondered what I would do with my day. For the first time ever I decided (in honor of myself) I was going to go back to bed and enjoy extra sleep, JUST BECAUSE!! As I crawled back into my warm bed trying not to feel too guilty, someone starts knocking on my door and ringing the doorbell, a little frantically I might add! At first I was hoping they would go away, I wasn’t expecting anyone. As the knocking got louder I jumped out of my bed and ran downstairs. It was my friend Laurie!! She had stopped by to wish me a Happy Birthday before work. She’s standing there all dolled up and I look like, well, I just got out of bed! She didn’t care and neither did I! We quickly had a cup of coffee, chatted, I opened her gifts and she went on her way. Then I went back to bed!

Upon my second wake up call of the day I decided I needed to have a plan for my birthday. I wanted to (of course) honor myself, but wanted to honor others, starting with God first. After making myself breakfast (another first for me) I sat and had my devotions in prayer and reading my Bible. My heart was filled with joy and thankfulness for all that I have.

The phone calls and e-mails started to come in from friends and family wishing me a Happy Birthday. Some sang, others just told me how much, well, they liked me! I wanted to reach out to someone on my birthday so I made a contact to help a family in my community whose house just burnt down. Then I went off to play tennis. Somehow, when I arrived at the club many people knew it was my birthday, and that just made me smile! Every hour I was blessed by someone making a contact, and mostly people whom I don’t see or talk to very often.

When the kids came home from school we all went out for a bike ride (except Emeline, she ran), that made me very happy!

Tonight was spent going out for dinner and spending time at my parents eating chocolate mousse cake.

One significant thing I did today was develop a plan on pursuing a dream or maybe calling from God, not sure which yet. I have been encouraged by so many to write a book. Having this blog and attending two writers conferences made me realize I do not have the gift of writing, yet I have had a burning desire to write a book for girls with ADD for many months now. Last night my friend Kelli very boldly said “You must start writing this book! What are you waiting for?” Today I have a plan on taking the next step for the book. So…there Kelli!! Thanks for the nudge; I look forward to the journey and seeing what God does. My mom will co-author the book with me. Just spending the extra time with my mom will be worth whatever happens!!

Sweet Dreams and thanks for making my “All About Me” Day extra special!!

Blessings,

Debbie

Do They Have a Vaccine For That?

2008-10-01T21:27:00.003-04:00

Just yesterday morning I had breakfast with a friend and my mother, and the subject of “Telling your kids about SEX” came up! Having a nine year old daughter, many of us parents are buzzing about the subject, wondering when is a good time and what on earth do we say? I’ve personally listened to tapes, called and spoken to counselors at Focus on the Family http://www.focusonthefamily.com/, read books on the subject, and talked to my “wise” girlfriends! The experts advise to start talking to your child when the “window of opportunity” opens. “Wade into the waters and see what the response is”. How are we supposed to know what that all looks like?

We have friends that have already had “The talk”. Some of the stories could keep me laughing for weeks!! I’m so glad God has a sense of humor and we can too when it comes to all this!!

There have been a few small opportunities that I have tried to “Wade into the water” with Emeline. I bought a recommended American Girl Doll book about her body. Absolutely no interest! I was shocked! Doesn’t she want to know how her body is going to start to change? Nope!

Emeline has always been a very alert, “street wise” kind of girl for her age with good social skills. Surely she must have more knowledge then she is letting on to, and when she is ready she will open up about it.

Last night I had all three kids in the car. Emeline 9, Sam 7, and Zachary 6. The subject of Chicken Pox came up which lead to vaccines, and somehow we moved over to talking about babies. “How do babies come out of your belly?” asked Zachary. “Through your privates”, was my reply. Emeline assured us all she was not going to have any children. “Of course you will. Some day you’ll get married and want to have a family” I encouraged her. “No mommy, I don’t want to have any kids. By the way, do they give you a shot for that?” “A shot for what?” “A shot so you don’t have any babies, like a vaccine!”

It was clear to me last night Emeline still thinks as she always has….that you get married, and the babies just come out of you!!

We will know when the timing is right. One day Emeline will be ready to know and it will make sense to her. In the mean time, Steve and I will keep “Wading in”, “Wading out”, enjoying our daughter and the beautiful mind God has given her, asking Him to protect her and keep her under His mighty wings.

My Advice? DON'T PANIC!!

“The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established”. Proverbs 16: 1,3

Blessings,

Debbie

A Happy Anniversary

2008-09-27T23:42:00.004-04:00

Last year on this date I was in Paris with Steve celebrating a very romantic tenth wedding anniversary. The memories are sweet!

Today, on our eleventh anniversary we honored another couple to have an anniversary away. Yesterday, I added four additional children (ages four thru eleven) to our family. I had one come that was highly allergic to the dog, and one who was very sick just the day before. Knowing and loving these children, we were more then willing to accommodate however we needed to welcome our guests.

I was honored this dear friend of mine would entrust her children to my crazy household!! After all, we’re the ones that go to the ER all the time. Injuries are the norm for us. My six year old son is constantly injuring himself and spends quite a bit of time in the nurse’s office at school! I truly see this friend as a modern day Proverbs 31 Woman. She is one of the most loving, patient, Godly woman, and her children are a reflection of her. She serves quietly and humbly.

Meals were just a kick while they were all here. Last night I was solo as Steve had to work. The older kids chipped in to help the younger kids, and our first meal together was a success! Me having the Camp Director personality got everyone involved, interacting, contributing, and laughing together.

Since it rained yesterday and we were confined to the indoors, the troops were ready to go outside after Steve made them anything they wanted for breakfast! The activities of the day included catching fish in the stream, going on the zip line, a high swing, motorcycling, jogging, golfing, dance shows, and archery, just to name a few.

Sadly, after twenty four hours it was time for them to leave. Steve and I enjoyed every minute with them all. We only had two injuries, one from each family. They left dirty, tired, and happy with a chocolate chip cookie in their hand! I made them all promise me they will come again.

The second part of the day was spent with really fun friends of ours (our camping buddies). It wasn’t until yesterday we knew for sure we could go, but I prayed all week it would work out! After dinner we went to see the movie Fireproof. “Never leave your partner in a fire!” I will never forget those words. The movie was, well amazing. Please go see it!!

Eleven years of marriage. Not a long time in the big picture but so much has happened. All the vows I made September 27, 1997 were just words at the time. There’s no way anyone can enter a marriage and really understand what they are saying. It is only through the test of time “For better or worse”, or “Richer or poorer” is understood. Thankfully Steve and I made a commitment to God first, so when the difficult times come, we have that commitment staring us in the face. “We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us!”

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, endures all things”. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Wow, I still have so far to go!!

Sweet Blessings and Happy Anniversary to my husband! Thank you for hanging in there with me Steve! I LOVE YOU!!

Debbie

It Feels Like a Miracle!

2008-09-24T22:45:00.001-04:00

Since last June, my foot has been hurting me. I injured it doing what I love, playing tennis. In the middle of a USTA match I pivoted on the ball of my foot and felt something painful happen.

During the summer months I did my best to make it all go away. After any exercise or tennis I would ice it. Motrin was my friend

I went to a Podiatrist who told me a woman my age should not be doing such intense physical activity. That went over really well. Then I went to see an Orthopedic Surgeon in my area who ordered all types of scans to conclude I had fluid in the ball of my foot. I was told if I rested the foot and stayed away from the courts for awhile I would be fine. My exercise has dwindled down to a stationary bike (BORING!) and minimal tennis. My daughter has taken to running and there is nothing more I would love to do then go for a run with her, but can’t.

Months ago I made an appointment to get a second opinion with a surgeon who specializes in foot injuries and takes care of many professional ballet dancers when their feet are injured. This doc seemed right up my alley!! If anyone could help me it would be her!!

Today I made the trek down the freeway to one of the top hospitals in our city to see Dr. Chau. I started to feel anxious. “What if they put a boot on me and tell me to sit around for six weeks and do nothing?” “What if I need surgery?” “What if she suggests, a cortisone shot? I’ll say, NO WAY!”

Upon review of the X-rays and MRI, the doctor said “Wow, you’re in a lot of pain with this aren’t you? Hmmm…you’ve damaged two of your ligaments and they’re just dying to pop out, we need to restrict and immobilize them.” I was sure at that moment I was headed for a boot or cast. The doctor turned around and reached for a ½” medical tape. She began to tape two of my toes, pulling them under toward the bottom of my foot. “There,” she said, “Now the ligaments won’t move as much and this should heal in six weeks.” I wonder if she saw my mouth drop open in amazement. Then she asked me to get up and walk and see if my foot felt better. I couldn’t believe it, I had no pain!! After all the uncomfort for months, doctor visits, and scans, not to mention the money I have spent in fees, it took two pieces of medical tape to relieve the pain!!

Many times throughout the Bible we read about Jesus healing really sick and even dead people. Effortlessly, He just told them to get up and walk. Having a small amount of chronic pain leave me is amazing, it makes me want to go run a marathon (Dr, Chau wouldn’t approve of that!). I can tell you this…anyone who has been in pain and experiences relief is thankful and humbled to feel better once again. No wonder those guys in the Bible were ecstatic!

My foot is nothing compared to what some experience in this world, but I pray the absence of pain makes me grateful for every day my body can move, and I look forward to some day soon running many miles with my daughter!

Sweet Dreams and blessings,

Debbie

"Hand-Me-Downs"

2008-09-22T22:28:00.002-04:00

Coming from a career in apparel as well as interior design, I would like to think I have at some point in my life developed a tad bit of style. Actually, the way trends go today, you can wear just about anything with an updated accessory and you’re good to go!

Having a daughter, I had high hopes of her looking to me for fashion tips. I couldn’t wait until she was older so we could shop together.

Since Emeline was a young girl she made it clear to me she did not want to be a “girly” girl. I was o.k. with that. Recently she respectfully told me her style was not my style and just because I liked something doesn’t necessarily mean she likes it. I was o.k. with that too, but taking this gal shopping has turned into a nightmare! First, she can’t make up her mind. Everything I suggest is sure to be turned down. I remember my mother telling me how difficult it was to spend money on clothes for me she thought were ugly!! I can only hope and pray I was half as respectful to my mother about it all as my daughter is to me.

Having a girlfriend’s daughter’s "hand-me-downs" has been a huge blessing. This comes from a teenager Emeline looks up to, so her clothes are welcome. Yesterday we went through a large bag of clothes and it was better then Christmas!

As I went through each garment there was something special about sharing in someone else’s past. Watching a fine young girl grow up, loving Jesus, making good choices, having a bible study in her school. Wow, I pray my daughter has that bold spirit about her! In a silly sort of way I was blessed financially and honored spiritually that Emeline would wear the clothes of such a fine teenager!

We have been blessed with so many teenagers (boys and girls) setting Godly examples to my children for years now. Loving life, working towards goals, yet never loosing the need for Jesus in their lives.

Thank you to all the young people out there who have made a positive impact on my children’s lives, for loving them just they way they are! Their lives are richer today for knowing you!! We love you all!!

“And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means loose my reward”. Matthew 10:42

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

Right Under The Teacher's Nose!

2008-09-17T10:26:00.001-04:00

Sitting in the front of a room is out of my comfort zone. When I walk into a room I like to sit in the back or side of the room. I guess a Psychologist could do an analysis on that and tell me why. For me, it has to do with “Blending.” I’m a person who does not like to stand out in a crowd.

Two out of three of my children in the past wind up with their seat assignment “Right under the teacher’s nose”. During my initial visit to Sam’s classroom at the beginning of the year two weeks ago, I noticed the teacher had Sam in the second row on the end. I was pleased to see Sam making a progression toward the middle of the room (where his mama likes to sit!) As I entered Sam’s classroom last night for “Back to School Night”, I headed for Sam’s seat and someone was in it! The teacher directed me to Sam’s new seat…..first row… next to the teacher’s desk! That would have been my very last choice for seats! To make matters worse, since the desks and seats are small I felt like a giant sitting in the front of the class!

With each new school year come steps towards independent learning and reasoning. A good teacher will gently push the students as far as they can go, taking them at times out of their comfort zone. Sam’s teacher is delightful and I can tell she will attempt (with God’s help) to do all of the above!

Being out of my comfort zone is a place I wind up from time to time. Like most, familiar ground is preferred, but it is in those times of life when I’m feeling exposed and vulnerable that God steps in and reveals Himself, pushing me to higher grounds! God uses these times in my life to show His faithfulness and presence.

I pray our children see God in the process of learning as their minds are challenged to achieve academic excellence. May they see the need for Jesus in their lives to achieve Spiritual excellence that often takes them out of their comfort zone!

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

“It is God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer, and sets me on my high places.” Psalm 18:32-33.

Have a wonderful day!

Blessings,

Debbie

An Answered Prayer

2008-09-15T00:10:00.002-04:00

My life is beyond blessed in so many ways, I have a difficult time asking God for things. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ.” Philippians 4:6-7

"Pray without ceasing". I Thessalonians 5:17. Praying for others is a privilege and a commitment I do not take lightly. It is an honor to bring those I know and love as well as others “boldly before the thrown of grace”, asking God to intervene and reveal His perfect will. However, sometimes God chooses to not answer our prayers the way we would hope and pray. We need to accept whatever it is that God has for us. From life experience I can tell you that God sees a much bigger picture then what our eyes can see. He will not withhold any good thing from those who walk with Him and abide in Him. So what is good? GOD IS GOOD!! VERY GOOD!!

Recently our finances have become tight in a way I have not experienced. Lots of changes needed to take place, cutting corners and costs wherever possible.

A Women’s conference was in town this past weekend. Typically this is a difficult time of year for me to get away with school starting up and sports. For the last several years I have declined, knowing I needed and wanted to tend to my family.

The day the conference started my heart was heavy to go. I spoke to my girlfriend and could have asked her to try and see if there was an extra ticket, but I chose to pray and just let the Lord take care of it if He wanted me to go. “Lord, I would really love to go to the conference this weekend. If you want me to go, please have someone call me with a ticket”. I knew if anyone would call it would be someone who doesn’t know me very well, because those close to me know I would most likely say NO.

God used a very dear friend of mine, a steadfast friend, who loves Jesus, and He spoke to her heart. A ticket was available. I was thankful and thrilled. I immediately called my other girlfriend to tell her I was going. “No Way” were her words, “Where are you sitting?” Gosh I hadn’t thought of that and it didn’t really matter although I would have liked to sit near my buddies. Before I knew it yet another ticket was obtained for me, this time in the box suite with my girlfriends! The humbling part? It was free!

Thank you to all my girlfriends (you know who you are) for allowing God to work through you to bless someone who needed a day off to worship, honor, and soak in the love of Jesus!

Sweet blessings,

Debbie

"Yes, That Would Be Me!"

2008-09-11T23:10:00.002-04:00

Yesterday morning I opened up the freezer, and to my surprise instead of feeling cold air, I sensed warmer air! Anyone who has been to my house knows we have a very large freezer and it just so happened to be packed! Unsure of what to do, I e-mailed my husband. He advised to keep the freezer closed and he contacted an appliance service man.

By the time Steve came home the freezer was room temperature and food had already been spoiled. We packed up a large cooler of meats to take to Steve’s office and utilized a neighbor’s extra freezer for over flow as well. “What could be wrong with it?’ we wondered. It’s a Sub Zero, and they’re supposed to last forever!!

Today Carl the Appliance man showed up to fix our freezer. I was glad to see him, soon the problem would be solved!

“It’s a shame your husband decided to turn the freezer off” were Carl’s words. He needed to see the freezer running to diagnose the problem. He suggested we turn it back on and leave it on for twenty four hours and then he would come back. I suggested we get Steve on the phone and talk to him about this. “I didn’t turn the freezer off!” were Steve’s words.

Being the mother of my two boys, I immediately knew one of them had something to do with this! Someone had turned off the freezer! Steve and I were utterly embarrassed that neither one of us thought to check to see if the freezer was shut off, “Who would do such a thing?”

After writing a check to Carl for the service call, he went on his way with a good story to tell his family I’m sure!! I couldn’t wait to speak to the boys when they got off the bus!!

When Sam and Zachary arrived home I asked them to go stand in front of the freezer. I opened it up and showed them the dial which turns the system on. “Did someone touch this dial?”. Zachary’s arm shot right up like he was in a classroom and said “Yes, that would be me!”

When situations like this happen in life it can ruin the day. Yes, it was annoying, but I chose to be thankful for a husband that came and helped me manage it all, and having neighbors to chip in and let us crowd their freezer! We all had a laugh and learned a good lesson. If the freezer isn’t working, check the dial to make sure one of the boys didn’t turn it off while getting a Klondike Bar!!

“Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds”. Hebrews 10:24

Blessings,

Debbie

Now What Do I Do?

2008-09-10T22:24:00.002-04:00

For someone who does not watch more then @ five minutes of TV a day to get the local weather, this gal has been TV binging for the last month! First it was the Olympics. My kids and I watched most nights sometimes staying up until midnight! We cheered our hearts out for the USA!! Since all three kids were on the swim team this year, the swimming was so exciting for us to watch, and Michael Phelps was amazing!! Hearing Michael’s story told by his mom was precious, as I have a son much like Michael in his personality.

There were some sports we enjoyed more then others, but one thing is for sure….. those athletes rocked, and we were so proud of our country!!!!! Every night my six year old would say to me “Mommy, tell me who we are routing for!”

After the Olympics came tennis. During the US Open every year I tell my family “This is all about me for two weeks!” I watch as much tennis as I can, especially at night. Most nights everyone sits and watches with me. I think they all get a kick out of how pumped up I get over the game! Earlier this week was the women’s finals, and what a show Serena Williams provided for the fans of New York! One of the best matches I have ever seen. Serena has winning skills like no one else. Finally, Federer took the men’s championship, of course. The match was predictable, and….good for Roger!

So, now what do I do? The olympics are over, tennis is over, and I’m in the habit of staying up late and watching TV! Thank goodness Sarah Palin has come along, now I can follow that amazing woman!

In reality, I need to buckle down and start reading more and working on a fall Bible study. Although I will miss the summer fun, my soul needs nourishing and now is a good time to get started!

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”. Psalm 119:105

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

"A Boy's Best Bird"

2008-09-08T22:13:00.002-04:00

Most people talk abut a “Man’s Best Friend”, the dog, but it really should be called “Women’s Best friend”, don’t you think? After all, it’s us gals that really take the brunt of responsibility when it comes to our beloved pets. Sure, my dog is cute, but I don’t need another “Best Friend”!

Sam worked long and hard over the summer being tutored to keep him academically strong for the start of second grade. We talked about a special reward at the end of the summer after he concluded all the hours of reading and writing. All Sam wanted was a bird to take care of and be “his best friend”.

Sam struggles sometimes with social skills and can be rough with kids his own age, not intentional of course, Sam has the biggest heart. Children his age don’t always see how special Sam is.

A few years ago one of our much loved babysitters brought her new baby for us to meet. She lovingly placed the tiny baby in Sam’s arms (sitting down of course!). We were all blown away to see my high energy, impulsive boy behave so responsibly, lovingly, and tenderly toward this baby. From then on Sam has always been so sweet with little babies and pets (I wish I could say the same for my six year old!)

I was not anxious to acquire another pet in my family, but I knew this was a good step for Sam.

Three weeks ago Charlie the Parakeet came home to live with us (we don’t really know if he is a boy or girl, how do you tell?). He was a gift from Sam’s tutor, my mom. Watching my son take care of this bird is just precious. Yes, of course the first few days he got out of his cage and was flying all over the house with me screaming “This is not acceptable, I knew this would happen!!” Recently I walked into Sam’s room and saw him sitting on his bed with Charlie in his cage on the bed playing the guitar. Now, Sam does not know how to play the guitar but he played with all his heart to bless his best friend Charlie.

On the way out to school the other day Sam requested, “Mom please spend time with Charlie today, he’ll miss me.” The good mom I try to be, there I was chirping upstairs in Sam’s room at Charlie with the dog looking up at me as if he was saying “What in the world are you doing?”

Ah, the things we do for our children, and yes, for our pets too.

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

My Baby Is Growing Up!

2008-09-06T22:44:00.006-04:00

This week I have been trying to remember not to forget Zachary’s birthday. For some reason I can rattle off Emeline and Sam’s birthday, but when I am asked Zachary’s birth date there is always a pause…….9-6-01!! (oooops, I mean 02!!)

Having three babies in three years was not an easy task.

I lived most of my life single and a career woman, getting married in my late thirties. After several miscarriages we had Emeline. Less then a year later we were surprised to find out that we were having our second child (Sam). Not really sure whether we were done and me feeling like my biological clock was ticking away, we decided to try for one more. I had a cut off time for how long I wanted to try and prayed for God to answer that question based on my cut off date (I know, pretty bold of me). The cut off date came and went and I wasn’t pregnant. It was a New Year’s Day (in the shower) that I resolved my life to being o.k. with two children. I thanked God for Emeline and Sam and I was ready to settle into being happy with and blessed to have just them. God had different plans!

My calculations were wrong. After a positive pregnancy test and rushing to the doctor’s office to be monitored for my “high risk” miscarriage status, I said out loud to all the nurses, “I have no idea how this happened, I’m not supposed to be pregnant!!” I can only imagine how ridiculous I must have sounded.

Nine months later and six years ago today Zachary came into the world, my third child. While I was pregnant I was sure I was having a girl, after all, the Lord knew I would be a better girl’s mom then a boy’s mom. Again, God had different plans.

I have not recovered jumping from child #2 to child #3. I’ve read and heard several accounts of families having numerous children yet it was the jump from #2 to #3 that was the most difficult, especially when having them so close to each other.

I stand in awe of women with three or more children that seem to have survived this phase in life. God has been so good to have blessed me with several dear friends who have high energy children, especially boys! There’s a certain bond I feel with women who “get” the boy thing. One thing is for sure, laughter is absolute key to our sanity!! None of these women act like they have it all together, WE KNOW WE DON’T!! We’re just thankful to get from one day to the next with God’s grace and wisdom!!

Sometimes I think back to my talk with God and being settled with two children. Gosh, I can’t imagine my life without Zachary, he has been such a blessing in our lives. He’s quite a character and raises many eye brows, but I’m use to that by now having two other imperfect children. We pray as Zachary grows and matures he will see a need for Jesus in his life. If he can grasp that…..he’ll be just fine.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.: Prverbs 22:6

Happy Birthday Zachary!! We love you so much!!!

Blessings,

Debbie

Follow The Bus

2008-09-03T15:13:00.001-04:00

Many years ago I attended a home bible study with mostly married people. I was single and traveling with my job, marriage and a family was no where in sight for me. One of the women with younger children at the time told me every year on the first day of school she follows the bus after her kids get on, all the way to school. That sounded like one of the funniest things I had ever heard. I couldn’t believe someone would do that!

All these years later, now having three young children I follow the bus to school on the first day!! People laugh when I tell them what I do but I’m happy to know how safe the driver appears, and how well the children seem to behave.

Having my two boys on the bus keeps me reserved thinking they’ll ride all year long. Keeping their hands to themselves is not something they do well. Wrestling has become their favorite sport when they’re together. Sure, I tried to put the fear of God in them, telling them there is a “no touch” rule on the bus and they must both sit behind the driver in separate seats. If they choose to fight on the bus, they will regret making that decision when they come home!

This is the first year all three kids are on the bus, and I love the thought of not having to run back and forth to school. My heart is a little sad with the start of school, we had such an awesome summer together. I was rarely without at least one or two of them all summer long, I’m missing them already!! Right now my companions are the dog (ICE) and the parakeet (Charlie).

Taking the bus for my kids is an act of independence. They know I will gladly drive them to school but I think in their own way they know much about life and how to get along can be learned on the bus. We’ve had our share of “issues”, but we handle each situation as a teaching tool and of course, pull them off the bus if they can’t behave themselves!!

I can’t wait until Bob (the bus driver) returns them home safely so I can kiss their cute little faces!!

Happy back to school week!!!

Blessings,

Debbie

A Sweet Time Of Fellowship

2008-09-02T23:15:00.002-04:00

Steve announced on Thursday before Labor Day he wanted to go away. I just returned home from a long trip from one shining sea to the other with the kids and was not looking forward to pack everyone up again! Since my husband has been working until midnight most nights for the last four months I knew this was important for him to spend time with the family.

Steve rented a little house up the mountains that had room for friends to come so we invited dear friends of ours hoping the day’s notice wouldn’t be a problem!! When they couldn’t swing the trip we decided to go just our family. All I was secretly hoping for was to not cook, and be able to watch the US Open!!

When we arrived at our destination in the mountains, I tried hard not to “bee line” it to the TV to see if the Open was on. IT WAS NOT! I decided I would not die without seeing tennis over the weekend. Instead we all started to play cards. “Spit”, “Trash”, and “Go Fish” were words used often over the course of the weekend. It was hard to understand why Emeline and Steve won most of the time and the boys and I lost most of the time!

The best part of the weekend was the sweet fellowship with Steve. Sure the kids were crazy and the boys are into wrestling all the time but in the midst of the utter chaos we were able to talk, discuss, and pray about the challenges that lie ahead for us over the next year. Spending time reading the bible and praying gave us both a sense of security to know we are in this thing called life together with a God who is faithful and still very good. Sometimes we can’t trace His hand, but we can trust His heart.

“Oh taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the man who trusts in Him” Psalm 34:8

Thank you to all our friends and family who love us, and pray for us. We are eternally grateful!!

Blessings,

Debbie

Staying Inside The Wake

2008-09-02T00:07:00.002-04:00

My first sport ever was water skiing. At age five (maybe four) I tried and got up on two skis. Back then, that was the only water sport you could do behind a boat. A few years later I mastered a slalom ski and enjoyed cutting in and out of the wake, determined to show my brother up!

Today there are so many floating devices for boats to pull, from wake boards, surf boards, to banana boats, and now there is a “kite like” thing that can actually lift you in the air!!

Emeline has taken to water sports like her mama, we have even skied together at the same time, one my favorite things to do with my own mother when I was a little girl.

Recently I was elected the “watcher” on the boat to cheer on the next generation of water skiers, surfers, wake boarders, and fliers!! It was Emeline's turn and she decided to do the wake board. The board positions you sideways and wants you to ride the wake. As the boat pulled Emeline out of the water, she popped out sideways, and sure enough the board wanted to go out of the wake. I could immediately tell she did not want to do that and fought to stay behind the boat inside the wake where the water was calmer. Unfortunately the board won and took her flying outside the wake where it was much rougher and harder to control her balance.

As I watched Emeline fight to hang in there outside the wake with lots of waves, I thought how the boat represents God and we represent the skier or boarder. Staying behind the boat and allowing it to “cut” the waves makes skiing much easier. Allowing God to carry our burdens for us and direct our path in life makes our journey much smoother and peaceful.

Emeline’s favorite verse helps her at night along with praying when she is afraid. She memorizes it and recites it often. I pray she will always seek God for help in times of trouble, and allow Jesus to “cut” the waves of life for her.

“I will sleep in peace, for You alone oh Lord make me dwell in safety”. Psalm 4:8

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

Last summer "Hoo-Rah" for the Summer gang!

2008-08-28T00:01:00.002-04:00

With an abundance of Southwest frequent flier tickets, Steve graciously agreed to let the kids and I take a multi-city trip with three connecting stops in Chicago!! First we went to Oregon to visit a dear friend, then Indiana to visit cousins.

I’m convinced I was born and raised to travel, it’s in my blood! Traveling for business was easy for me and afforded me the privilege to see many of the states as well as Europe. As a business woman I boarded a plane wearing a typical black suit with a newspaper and cup of coffee in my hand.

Traveling with kids is much different. I spent days thinking, preparing and brain storming how to entertain three high energy kids flying across the country with three two hour stops in Chicago!! I had every electronic piece of equipment charged and ready to go. Every time we stopped in Chicago we ran for all the outlets we could find to recharge our entertainment devices! I also brought reading books, activity books and puzzles. Since the airlines did away with serving food I had a cooler of snacks and sandwiches to keep all the bellies full until we got to our destination! While in Chicago we found the McDonald’s. By our third visit they knew and recognized our patronage.

I knew traveling on six airplanes in eight days could have thrown me right over the edge. Looking back I think there were a few angels God provided along the way. Whether it was a grandma sitting next to Sam commenting how utterly charming he was, or a teenager from Bend Oregon starting off in the window seat (from Chicago) and switching to the middle seat to have my boys on either side of her so she could talk to them, I knew God was watching over us and going before us. Many came up to me (especially in Chicago!) to tell me how well behaved my children are (IMAGINE THAT!!). I was proud of them all.

Our trip was filled with many memories. Portland Oregon is beautiful and majestic with the mountains. Climbing in and around water falls was breath taking. Zachary will not forget the day he helped rescue a dog missing for days stuck in a stream. Sam enjoyed meeting all the dogs in the neighborhood and their owners at the park each day. Emeline picked blackberries and learned how to make a pie with my friend Bridget. Stopping in Indiana on the way home for a few days to visit the cousins was, as usual a blast. My parents met us there as well. Going to the lake house is like a little Disney World for the kids. My boys love to ride the quads and motorcycles while Emeline is all about the water sports.

The best part of the trip was being with friends and family we love so dearly. Sure, we did a lot fun things but it is the love and acceptance of my gang that means more to me then the place and activities.

After eight days we were ready to come home. Like Emeline says, “Being away is so much fun, but home is the number one place to be!”

To Bridget, my sister, and all the angels along the way – THANK YOU and WE LOVE YOU! You made our last Hoo-Rah a BLAST!!!!

Blessings,

Debbie

A Life Long Friendship

2008-08-23T01:46:00.004-04:00

I wasn’t sure how my kids would fair a trip from the Northeast to the Northwest with a two hour stop in Chicago! I took all three kids for the first time by myself to Oregon to see my friend Bridget. This was the last Hoo-rah of the summer! I had every piece of electronic equipment ready and charged to give them maximum entertainment from one coast to the other!

As much as I love my kids, I’m also aware they can tire anyone out quickly. They’re loud but happy. Full of energy yet hysterical. My guys and doll love an adventure and Bridget was ready to love them like her own, and give them just that!

I’ve known Bridget for over twenty years. We met in Philadelphia. She was married, and pregnant with her first child. I was single and busy with my career.

I have always admired my friend for her faith, strength, and grace. Seeing her as a wife and mom was an inspiration to me. She was patient and realistic yet full of a sense of humor. She could always find an optimistic view for whatever challenge that faced her. Her love for God and determination to trust Him no matter what has encouraged me to keep pressing on during more difficult times.

Bridget loved having my kids and they knew they were welcome. Her home is relatively quiet but she welcomed the noise, dirt and fighting! Living next to a park allowed the kids to be out and about visiting neighbors and playing with their dogs. Zachary is almost a hero...he found a dog in the creek crying. His paw was struck under a rock, he had been missing for several days. After running for help, the dog was rescued and returned to his owner.

To have a friend like Bridget for so many years has impacted my life in many ways. I never stop missing her. She is the one I call when it seems as though my life is falling apart. After a few minutes of talking we somehow find a way to laugh and see the brighter side of things. I have never once felt judged by her, only encouraged to seek after the Lord and His will for my life.

Seeing each other go through ups and downs of life has drawn us closer, even though we are thousands of miles apart. Today our lives are challenging in different ways yet there is a common bond in Christ, a life long friendship, and a thankful heart that God would see fit to bring such a wonderful person in my life (sniff!).

I love you and miss you Bridget, thanks for such a great time. I'll see you in HB for the big celebration!!!!

Blessings,

Debbie

A Hunt To Be Remembered

2008-08-17T06:41:00.001-04:00

With two birthdays within on month of each other I decided to simplify things by having a combined party for Emeline and Zachary. After deciding to have the party at our pool I started to wonder how the group would stay together at such a large club. It didn’t make sense to me to have guests come only for them to scatter throughout the four pools.

With a mix of ages between five and ten, boys and girls, how would I entertain them all? Many of them did not know each other, so I had to think of a way to get everyone doing something together. A Scavenger Hunt! Brain storming with a friend one night, then my mother, we came up with a hunt that was so much fun. I think I was more excited then the kids.

The day came for the party and of course the weather was not good. It was raining in the morning and there were threats all day for showers. We prayed the skies would clear, and clear they did. In addition, because of the poor weather earlier, most members went home, so we practically had a private party!

With more guests then I planned for and additional family members joining in on the party, we had a big hunt with lots of kids, five teams strong. Yes, it was utterly chaotic but a blast from beginning to end. Seeing the parents leading the groups with their varying personalities was hilarious! My favorite task was having one team member blow a rubber ducky across the pool. Watching the pyramids form, kids dressing up with “lost and found” clothes, teammates posing for a picture with a grandmother, all made the hunt fun and creative, promoting good teamwork and sportsmanship.

Being on a team teaches kids (and us) great life lessons. Sometimes we have control over the outcome of the game and sometimes we don’t. Giving it our best and having fun is key. Supporting and encouraging one another is a must.

“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works”. Hebrews 10:24.

The scavenger hunt was a success, and from what I could tell each team worked together, encouraging one another with many laughs along the way!

Blessings,

A Sweet Birthday

2008-08-10T22:50:00.004-04:00

Nine years ago at this time I was in as much pain as I could remember. After the text book fourteen hours of labor I delivered my first baby girl, natural and all!

I had been told by a doctor I would never be able to get pregnant or I would need a lot of help. After two miscarriages Emeline McKenzie Summer entered the world!

I had been working in New York and a confirmed corporate gal. During the pregnancy I was busy hunting for child care, the perfect place to take care of my baby. From the moment I set eyes on her I knew I would not be returning to the work place for awhile.

The day of Emeline’s ninth birthday was special from beginning to end. It started with blueberry pancakes and ended with surfing at the beach. With a creative mind she spent a good part of the day making jewelry. I sat beside her with my computer planning her scavenger hunt birthday party and we both enjoyed and sang to Hannah Montana. “I Miss You” is Emeline’s favorite song so we listened to that about forty times. I like it too!

Having a daughter is an incredible joy in my life. I love the person God has made Emeline. She is changing almost daily.

My prayer is for her to love the Lord her God with all her heart, mind, and soul. She sees the need for Jesus in her life, and for that I am so very humbled and
grateful.

Emeline’s favorite verse -“I will sleep in peace, for You alone oh Lord make me dwell in safety”. Psalm 4:8

I love you sweet Emeline!!!

Blessings,

Debbie

The Noise Of My Boys!

2008-08-04T22:55:00.003-04:00

“Can somebody shoot me please?” How often these words run through my mind!! With only nineteen months apart, ages five and seven, Samuel and Zachary wake up most mornings swinging at each other. They’re not malicious. Just boys! Some days I handle it better then others. Being away with them recently for five days without my husband left my nerves frazzled. Sure, we had fun mountain climbing, canoeing, swimming, miniature golfing, rock climbing and tubing, but all the while I teeter back and forth between the role of camp director, disciplinarian, and referee. I’ve tried different ways to conform these boys into non-aggressive, gentle, well mannered, “kind to each other” young men, but there are days when I just want to give up!

Samuel spends 95% of his life fretting over Zachary, and Zachary pushes every button imaginable to make Sam act that way.

Since my husband works late many nights, the days can seem long, especially since I don’t allow TV or video games. Sometimes I believe I have the worst boys this side of the Mississippi! Every other mother seems to manage and raise calmer boys then mine.

The one main ingredient that keeps me half sane is praying that God will give me wisdom, strength and lots of patience!! In the global picture, I am the first to admit that they are fun, adorable, full of life, and loved by so many!

Honestly, the only strategy that works is to keep them separated when AT ALL POSSIBLE.

Recently I was at my “wits end”, asking God, “How do I do this?” Once again, He was faithful to reveal Himself to me. First, he reminded me through a friend, how quickly these crazy years will be over, and I’ll miss it. Second, through another friend, I was reminded that my boys really aren’t that different. Most siblings argue, annoy each other, and yes, even fight. Sure, there are the exceptional “well behaved” children, but we decided together that CRAZY KIDS ROCK, and laughed our way through sharing stories. Finally, my dear sweet mother offered to take one of the boys for the whole morning. Having a break for a few hours from the chaos was like a vacation!

These days of mine are not ending any time soon. I’m determined with God’s help to keep going, enjoying my CRAZY boys. God has provided me with friends (with older boys) who encourage me, help me to laugh, and remind me just how amazing my boys really are!

“I will go in the strength of the Lord God; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only”. Psalm 71:16

Blessings,

Debbie

Island Of Joy

2008-07-31T23:26:00.001-04:00

After a year of anticipating Emeline’s first sleep away camp, it was finally here! She was going to a Christian Girl’s Camp called Tapawingo , “Island of Joy” on an island in the middle of a lake in the Adirondacks. This is not a strange place to our family, my mother went to the camp when she was a young girl, and we have vacationed on the same lake for many years.

The summer has been busy and VERY fun with the swim team but now it was time to pack up and “Head for the Hills”. As a decent mother I tried to have everything perfect for Emeline’s week away. I made sure she had basically disposable clothes, I didn’t want to be disappointed when half of them didn’t come back! I discovered the Salvation Army for great deals on camp clothes!! Finally I arranged to have a package delivered to Emeline each day with a special note from me and a surprise inside. My desire was to make sure she knew how much she was loved while away from her family since we could not communicate with her.

I made sure I read through all the information for camp which included what to do about homesickness. Then I started to wonder what would happen if I got camp sick for her? There was nothing in the brochure about that!

The day came to register Emeline on the main land and then send her on her way. Parents were allowed to come out to the island with their daughter but it was not encouraged. I left that decision totally up to Emeline. The last minute decision was for me to go.

When we got to the island I started to choke up. The girls on the island were greeting the boat with the “Tapawingo Song”, welcoming the new campers. As I looked at my daughter I saw a quiet confidence about her, she was ready to take this step. I knew somehow the next time I saw Emeline she would be a different girl.

When it came time to say good-bye we held each other tight and I prayed that God would just bless her with the most amazing week of her life! We both shed a few tears but remained strong for one another. My mind quickly fast forwarded the clock ten years and realized this was the first of many good-byes, a small step toward her independence.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it”. Proverbs 22:6

As parents we do our best to instill Godly values in our children. With help from above I give it my best shot every day. One thing is for sure, my kids know Steve and I love them and they know we are ALL in need of Jesus in our lives.

As I left the “Island Of Joy” and my daughter that day, my heart was heavy yet full of peace to know that Emeline was in a very special place, ready to spread her wings and fly!

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

She's Free!

2008-07-21T01:21:00.003-04:00

Steve and I just returned home from a trip to see his dad in Missouri in a nursing home. The saying “Once an adult, twice a child” kept running through my mind as I saw this man, a victim of four strokes, now blind and unable to do anything for himself, completely dependent on the people around him. An average feeding time takes over an hour. After every bite of food dad’s mouth needs to be wiped, and he frequently chokes. A machine is used to move him from his wheelchair into his bed, cradling him like a baby.

Steve’s mom faithfully goes to the nursing home twice a day to feed and take care of him. You would think most families would be there for their loved ones but apparently that is not always the case. Many elderly patients spend their days alone. After watching my mother-in-law take care of my father-in-law it was apparent he was getting the best care of all! Everyone should have her to take care of them. The one big difference between her and other family members is Steve’s dad chose to leave his mom many years ago. The devastation and heart ache of the divorce lingered for many years. Forgiveness was not easy for Steve’s mom, this was not what she would have chosen for herself or the family.

Last January my father-in-law could no longer take care of himself and the decision was made by the family to move him from Florida to Missouri where his mom and sister were. My mother-in-law hadn’t seen him for many years. None of this made sense to me. “Why would we send him to where his ex-wife is? It’s not her job to take care of him” were my thoughts. My husband assured me this was the right thing to do.

The choice was made by my mother-in-law not only to forgive her ex-husband but she stepped into a selfless role of taking care of the man who hurt her so deeply causing more pain in her life then she could imagine. Amazingly, the fruit of her unconditional labor of love every day has produced joy. I sat with tears in my eyes as she tenderly fed him, changed him, treated his bed sore, and finally sang a song with him. By setting aside her hurts, moving in a direction of kindness, she has gained a priceless gift herself, FREEDOM in her heart! I’m sure the pain of what she went through will never completely go away, but somehow God has allowed her to experience this unthinkable task, taking care of the person who was supposed to be there “for better or for worse” so that He could show her His grace and mercy in a way many of us will never experience.

“And we know that ALL things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose”. Romans 8:28

Before Steve and I left today, we knelt down beside dad and wept, not sure that we would ever see him this side of heaven again. I sensed my husband rewinding the clock over the last forty years, terribly broken to think this could be it. We held each other and dad as we prayed asking God to take him home to heaven when He is ready. In the meantime we prayed for minimal pain and suffering.

Thank you to all our friends and family who have prayed for Steve’s family and his dad. We also thank everyone who took and offered to take our kids on such short notice. We are humbled and grateful.

Sweet Blessings,

Debbie

Pony Tails Rock!

2008-07-19T00:11:00.003-04:00

What was I thinking? Here it is mid July and I have a new doo!! A short doo that needs doing!! I can no longer just throw my hair up in a pony for one, two, maybe three days! Sure, I take a shower every day, but my life with kids doesn’t tolerate primping time for me. No make up and pony tail is what I am comfortable with. Wearing a Nike baseball hat is practically a trademark for me but it looks silly without a pony hanging out the back! I now have to wash and blow dry my hair everyday. Today, I got the wash in but never made it to the blow dry part and had to walk around for hours with flat wavy hair pushed back in a headband. Not my look for sure. Do I sound annoyed with myself?

I’ve taken to networking, talking to different ladies with shorter hair. Seeking new ways to get the hair up when it’s hot for the pool, tennis and workout. Why didn’t I just wait until September? Now I’m admiring and envious of all the ladies I see out with Pony Tails, surely their life must be easier then mine. After all Pony Tails Rock!!

My daughter tells me she likes longer hair on me and my sweet brother told me I look older with my new doo! My mother expressed surprise that I would cut my hair.

There are times in our lives when we just make a big mistake. At first we try and excuse it but it’s right there staring at us in the face, we get up and have to look at our mistake everyday! To add insult to injury we often have to live with consequences like a stub for a pony tail!

Making a mistake can be humbling especially when it involves another person. Taking ownership for the mistake is critical. I recently had to apologize for a mistake I made. The process was uncomfortable but the fruit was peace and joy in my heart (priceless)

“Humble yourselves therefore under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time”. 1 Peter 5:6

Realistically speaking, I hope everyone knows that this hair thing is a bummer but “JUST HAIR”! I’m missing my pony tail terribly but it will grow back! I’m not crazy about my new doo, but its just fine for now, and the best part about this whole thing is I’m thankful that I have any hair at all!!

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

Going Against The Waves

2008-07-14T00:01:00.006-04:00

Surf’s Up!! Spending the weekend at the shore, Sam worked hard to perfect his Skim Board Surfing. I’ve only seen the skim boards used for skimming the surface of the water, but now the “Dude” rage is surfing into the waves, not with them. If you do it right, the surfer gets a lot of air and cheers from the crowd! It’s amazing to watch the teenage boys thrill over throwing the board, running to jump on it, hitting a wave dead on, flying in the air, staying on their board rarely, most of the time slapping their bodies into the ocean. Only to get back on the beach and do it again! The timing is absolute key. Going against the waves and tide is technical and difficult for sure but the thrill of catching it right seemed worth it, the look on their faces said it all!!

Sam spent a lot of time watching the boys so he could get it just right. He stuck with it, lots of falls, mostly head first into the ocean. Every once in a while Sam got it right too!!

I couldn’t help but think about our lives as Christians, and how at times it feels like we’re going against the tide and waves. Because I believe the bible is the true word of God, my views or thought process may not be popular. How to get to heaven can be a “sticky” subject. Jesus tells us in Matthew that there is only one way to heaven “Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it”. Matthew 7:14.

This verse does not mean it is difficult to become a Christian but there is only one way to an eternity with God, asking Jesus into your heart (John 3:16). Only a few decide to walk that road. Living with this belief system may not be popular but it is true and right.

As I watched Sam trying to master the waves, I prayed that he will always have a heart to serve Jesus and not care that he is going against the waves and tide, even if he flies through the air and lands head first into the ocean of life. May he get up, grab his board, hang onto Jesus, and do it again!!

Sweet Dreams,

Debbie

She Knew Her Daddy Was There!

2008-07-10T22:59:00.002-04:00

Another banner meet for the “Crocs” (Crocodiles) tonight. Why? Because they have a lot of kids that can swim really well, and oh, the head coach is amazing. She recently qualified for the Ironman in Hawaii. Coach Heather amazes me how she takes the time to teach each individual age group and bring out the very best in their strokes and turns. The kids love and respect her.

When the events are scheduled for each meet, it makes sense to put the kids in the very best stroke they achieve making sure they have the legal kicks necessary.

Emeline is a good swimmer and is usually chosen for the back stroke and breast stroke. The back stroke can be stressful for a child because when they are coming down the lane on their back they don’t know where the wall is, so they slow down and can loose time. Knowing Emeline would most likely be chosen for the back stroke I reminded her before the meet to keep swimming, someone will put their hand out to catch her. I was a place judge tonight so I couldn’t move from my position. Sure enough Emeline was in two events with the back stroke. The first time she came down the lane and no one caught her. Whacking her head and shoulder, she then marched up to me and said “No one caught me!” I knew that if I didn’t make quite sure this wouldn’t happen again she would not swim well for the next event. I told her I would speak to the parents timing the lane and ask one of them to be sure they catch her head.

The next event was coming up for Emeline to swim the back stroke, and I could see her getting nervous. Just then my husband showed up at the meet and told her he would stand at the end of the lane and catch her. Emeline’s eyes lit up and she beamed with confidence to see her daddy at the wall!

“Swimmers take your mark!” and the horn went off for the start of the race. As the Place Judge I had to watch all eight lanes racing but Emeline was clearly pulling for first place. As she approached the wall, two swimmers were gaining on her but she swam harder to take first place knowing her daddy was there to catch her.

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”. Hebrews 11:1. Emeline could not see Steve as she was swimming but trusted he would be there because he said he would. God promises us many times over in the bible how he will be there for us, yet we must put our trust in Him. “Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him”. Hebrews 11:6

I pray we all grow to trust Him more in our daily lives holding onto the assurance He will be there to catch us!

Sweet dreams and blessings,

Debbie

"Did You Check The Garage?"

2008-07-09T23:12:00.000-04:00

Just getting back from vacation, Monday morning was chaotic to say the least. Staying up late nights by the campfire and fun activities throughout the days produced three tired children not ready to kick into a routine for the week. I wasn’t ready either!! It was time to buckle down with chores, reading, math, eating healthier, brushing teeth (my kids tend to take a vacation from that when they go away!), swim practice, and camp. Somehow we managed to get my daughter to camp by 9:00 AM.

Zachary’s chore on Monday was to clean out the dog crate. I told him to put the dog outside while he cleaned the crate. Our black lab has an electric fence so he can be outside without running away. Busy about my own chores and multi tasking I did not monitor Zach’s progress but did see the end result. A clean crate! I soon realized the dog was no where to be found. I went outside calling for him “Ice” many times but he did not come. Annoying thoughts started racing through my mind thinking this was now going to take the better part of the day to find the dog if he is really lost. I was also wondering how he broke through the electric fence. “ Ah!” I remembered, since we had been away, the electric collar was removed, and my husband probably forgot to put it back on!

Interrupting my attempt to bring order back to the family I gathered the boys in the car to drive around the neighborhood calling for Ice and asking people if they had seen him. I found it embarrassing to basically announce we can’t keep track of our dog! How hard can that be??

After driving all over the neighborhood, down many streets I had never traveled before, screaming Ice’s name, I was headed back home to start making phone calls. Just then Zachary said “Did you check the garage?” Turns out when I asked Zachary to put him “out”, that meant outside OR the garage to him.

I was reminded how often we all experience miscommunications. It never occurred to me to ask Zachary if he really put the dog out because I thought my directions were clear. To Zachary (five years old), that just meant to put the dog somewhere so he could clean his crate. It reminded me that so much of life can be about misunderstandings. I believe God wants us to give others the benefit of the doubt especially when it comes to relationships. “Judge not, lest you be judged” is a verse in Matthew where Jesus teaches about criticizing and seeing the best in others.

May we all be careful in our communication to one another, extending grace and giving the benefit of the doubt.

I was hysterically laughing to realize we were out searching the neighborhood while Ice was safe and sound in the garage!

Happy summer days!

Blessings,

Debbie

For Such A Time As This

2008-07-06T23:16:00.005-04:00

Many of us are getting ready or have already sent our beloved little people away for camp. Some go to day camp, others sleep away camp. IF your child is ready, camp is a life changing blast!!

Many years before I was born (YIKES!) my mother vacationed at Camp-of-the-Woods, a Christian family camp and has become our favorite time away!! What makes it so special? Do I dare say everything except the food? Even the food isn’t half bad for, well, camp (I’m picky)! The camp sits on a beautiful lake which can’t help bring peace to the soul. The activities are for any and all ages keeping everyone as busy (or not) as you want. Tennis (my favorite), swimming, canoeing, zip line, gym, miniature golf, carnival, arts and crafts, water skiing, fishing, campfires, just to mention a few. Believe it or not, with all the exciting activities, my children could be found most of the time catching frogs in the pond!

In years past we go to camp with many of my family members but this year we went just us five.

We were so amazingly blessed with all the new people we met and got to know, as well as time spent with Emeline, Samuel and Zachary.

I’m a guarded person when it comes to new friends. Not for any other reason then my life is quite full with my current family and friends. My children keep me so busy I don’t have much time for socializing. Last week I met several women of various ages I wish could be my next door neighbor (really!) A few were moms whom we shared a lot in common with our lives and challenges. One sweet woman had wisdom and grace just pouring out of her, I wanted to sit all day in her presence and listen to her share life experiences. Then there was my “tennis buddy”. I knew when I met her we would do well on the court together. In fact we won the woman’s doubles tournament!! The reward was a hot fudge sundae (doesn’t get much better then that!). She was just like me. Has a love for the game, competitive spirit, but enjoys lots of laughs along the way!!

The best part of the week was the chapel services each day. The speaker encouraged us to have a more intimate relationship with God. Not easy to do, but ALL things are possible with Him!!

I’m not typically a sad person, but as the week at camp came to a close I was so very sad to say good-bye to all my new friends. Of course it would be wonderful if we all meet again, but the beauty of knowing Jesus is the assurance we will one day be together in eternity. For now, I’m just thankful God saw fit to bring us all together last week “For Such a Time as This”

http://www.camp-of-the-woods.org/ Check it out!!

Sweet Blessings,

Debbie

Eat My Bubbles!

2008-06-26T22:52:00.006-04:00

“I said a Boom Chicka Boom……..!” screams the LMT Crocodiles (Crocs) as they begin their 2008 swim season. One hundred and fifty strong, this team can rock (and swim)!!!

There’s just something that pumps me up about the swim team. Is it the warm weather? The people? Feeling “official” with a timer strung around my neck? Having water splashed on me as the big kids dive in? Seeing my kid’s faces as they race down their lane? Having them “beat” their record? ALL OF THE ABOVE!!

I love the community where I live. I have had the privilege of getting to know so many interesting and delightful friends through tennis and a local bible church. Many of those friendly faces show up when we gather twice a week to cheer our favorite Crocs on to victory!

As a parent, we are required to work the meets, five at the least. Of course I want to work every meet, I love being right there in the middle of the organized chaos when the Ready Bench people can’t fine a child (usually one of mine), or being a Timer in a lane when it is someone’s very fist race and they’re so nervous (little five year old Caitlyn tonight). The best is when a swimmer is clearly struggling to finish in their lane, we gather around (doesn't matter what team) and scream our heads off to cheer them on to finish, “PULL”!!!

The jobs I like to do at the meets are “Timer” and “Placement Judge”. The Timer is assigned a lane and records each swimmer's individual time. The Placement Judge actually determines the placement of the swimmer, first, second, third……place. There are many other jobs, and it is interesting to see the same people doing the same type of jobs. There is one job you couldn’t pay me to do. It is called the “Mouse House”. This parent is responsible for watching (babysitting) the younger kids when they are not swimming. Talk about CHAOS!! Yet, I see the same parents volunteering for the position. They have patience of saints.

In the bible it talks about the body of Christ, how each of us has a job to do. When we know and walk with the Lord He gives us certain gifts to be used to glorify Him. When you think about our bodies, it’s a good thing the elbow doesn’t want to be a knee, or an eye a nose! “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office” Romans 12:4. The verse sounds formal but it is basically saying if you have the gift of “Timing” then time and don’t try and be a “Mouse House” parent (thank the Lord!) A little paraphrasing there but I think you get the point!

“………LMT all the way!”

Go CROCS!!

Sweet bubble dreams,

Debbie